Cornish Pirates are entering a new era after television presenter Nick Knowles became a shareholder in the Champ club as part of an ambitious investment project aimed at driving the club forward.
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With fresh investment from the United States and plans for a documentary series highlighting the importance of rugby in Cornwall, there is a clear sense that the Pirates have bigger ambitions than simply competing in the second tier.
That could also be reflected in their recruitment, with the club potentially able to attract players who would previously have been out of reach.
From realistic Champ signings to some more ambitious names, here are five players the Cornish Pirates could target as they look to make their mark in their new era.
Jack Nowell
The obvious marquee signing Pirates could make would be bringing proudly Cornish winger Jack Nowell back home. The 33-year-old remains at the top of his game with La Rochelle, but could potentially be tempted by a return to his home county.
The former England international, who is now ineligible for selection due to playing in France, won two Six Nations titles with England, as well as two Premiership titles and a Champions Cup with Exeter Chiefs.
If Nowell wanted to spend the latter stages of his career where it all began, Pirates could be an ideal destination. He could bring his career full circle by returning to the club where he started his rugby journey as part of the Pirates’ youth setup.
Billy Searle
Perhaps the most ambitious, and some would argue unrealistic, option on this list, Billy Searle enjoyed an excellent season with Leicester Tigers and has established himself as one of the finest fly-halves in England on current form.
He appears likely to remain in Leicester for the time being after a journeyman career, but the 30-year-old is originally from Exeter and has previously represented Cornwall.
Given that he is still in his prime, a move to Pirates is unlikely in the near future. However, it could become an attractive option further down the line if Searle wants to reconnect with his roots as his career begins to wind down.
Signing him would require a significant financial outlay, making the move unrealistic for Pirates at this stage.
