Exeter Chiefs confirm England Internationals departure

The 27-year-old England and British & Irish Lions will leave Sandy Park after a six-year stint, during which time he has helped the club to win both the Premiership and Champions Cup crowns.

Speaking about the addition of Hill to the squad for next season, Sale Sharks’ Director of Rugby, Alex Sanderson said: “I’m really excited to be bringing Jonny to Sale Sharks.

“He’s a player who knows how to win and what it takes to grind out those big games and that sort of experience is invaluable. His on-field qualities speak for themselves but what sets him apart for me is that he’s a genuinely good bloke and will no doubt add to the environment and culture that we have here.

“Having spoken to Jonny on a couple of occasions, I was really impressed with his appetite to improve and it’s exciting that he wants to do that at Sale Sharks. It tells me that we have a player of international class who believes in the club’s ambition, the culture that we’re building and wants to be apart of it, for me that’s mega.

“We’re thrilled to be bringing Jonny on board for next season and can’t wait to welcome him to Manchester.”

He formerly played for Hartpury College before joining Gloucester, making just two league appearances for the Cherry & Whites before moving to Sandy Park.

Like many famous rugby players, the lock has a farming background.

Hill is the nephew of former Rugby League international Paul Loughlin.

The forward really is an all-rounder, enjoying cricket, Skiing and sailing.

His girlfriend, Sarah Llewelyn rarely misses an opportunity to point out she has more international appearances, having represented Wales at netball.