Ryan: Pryce is right for us

Gloucester head coach Dean Ryan has described the recruitment of rugby league star Karl Pryce as a “significant addition” to his squad.

Powerful wing Pryce, who scored 17 tries in 21 appearances for the Bradford Bulls this year, linked up with his new team-mates yesterday, ending weeks of speculation about a cross-code switch.

Unlike fellow recent union converts Andy Farrell (Saracens) and Chev Walker (Bath), 20-year-old Pryce’s move features no Rugby Football Union funding and will be solely financed by his club.

The 6' 6" Pryce was a prolific try-scorer for the Bulls, and he becomes Gloucester’s second major league import after Henry Paul, who has now returned to the 13-a-side code with Harlequins.

Ryan said: “Karl’s try-scoring record for Bradford speaks for itself. He has enormous pedigree and will prove a significant addition to the Gloucester squad.

“We have been watching him for some time and believe that his physical presence will complement our other options in the back line."