SALE Sharks have signed giant lock Nathan Hines on a two year deal.

Nathan will join Sale after his commitments at Clermont Auvergne end in June.

Born in Wagga Wagga New South Wales, Nathan played rugby league in his early years with North Sydney Bears before crossing codes to play for Manly RUFC.

Nathan emigrated to the UK in 1999 and has played for Gala, Edinburgh, Perpignan, Leinster and Clermont Auvergne.

He was a Heineken Cup winner with Leinster in 2009/2010 and was a crowd favourite.

Nathan has also played 77 times for Scotland and toured South Africa in 2009 with the British and Irish Lions.

Commenting on the signing, Steve Diamond said: “Nathan is a world class player and will fit in well with us at Sale Sharks.

“He has vast experience playing at the highest level and is a regular starter at Clermont.

“Last weekend he was magnificent in helping his team beat Racing Paris.

“The forwards at Sale Sharks have played well this season and adding Nathan to the group will be a big boost to us.”