Bristol Bears have secured the services of one of the top performers on the university rugby circuit on a two-year deal ahead of the 2022/23 season.
Pat Lam, the Bears director of rugby, and his coaching staff are looking to recreate the success they have enjoyed with standout number eight Fitz Harding, who was picked up from BUCs rugby, by signing fellow Durham University forward Fred Davies.
Harding, 22, who was nominated for BUCS Super Rugby player of the year before joining the Bears, has continued to shine in professional rugby, keeping England international Nathan Hughes out of the squad having claimed the number eight jersey at Bristol.
Hooker Davies is currently the captain of Durham University who are sitting top of the standings of the BUCs Super Rugby league having won the title in 2019/20, and their skipper is a dynamic ball carrier at the heart of their game.
Davies was educated at the famous Oakham School and in his youth was a member of the Northampton Saints academy, showing a real pedigree to his rugby development.
Speaking to the league’s website, Davies said: “I have managed to pick up something at Bristol for next year, for the next couple of seasons, so that is good fun.
“I have been able to join up with them over Christmas to get a bit of taste for it.”
The signing is an intriguing one, with four high-quality hookers currently in the Bears squad, in the form of Harry Thacker, Bryan Bryne, Will Capon and Scotland international Jake Kerr.
Joe Cotton, who is yet to make a Premiership appearance having joined the club on a short-term deal, provides a fifth option.
A number of hookers have been linked with the Bears in recent months with Scotland international George Turner the most eye-catching name.
Turner, 29, currently plays for United Rugby Championship side Glasgow Warriors and has earned 19 caps for his country, scoring seven tries.
Bristol have already confirmed the signing of Leicester Tigers captain Ellis Genge and USA captain AJ MacGinty from Sale Sharks ahead of next season.
