Ospreys: Wales flanker Justin Tipuric signs new contract

Justin Tipuric was a 2013 British and Irish Lion in Australia

Wales and British and Irish Lions flanker Justin Tipuric has signed a new three-year contract with the Ospreys.

Tipuric, 25, has made 93 appearances for Ospreys since making his debut against Northampton in November 2009.

The open-side's current deal expired at the end of the 2014-15 season and he was linked with a possible move to English Premiership club Leicester.

"I'm just incredibly happy to have sorted this out so that I can focus solely on my rugby," Tipuric said.

"It's very flattering to be linked with the clubs that I have been, but my focus was always on signing a new contract here.

"That's what I always wanted, and that's what I've done.

"We are working hard here to build something for the long term, we have some quality young talent coming through and you get the feeling that something special is coming.

"I'm pleased that I can continue doing my bit and be a part of it."

Tipuric made his Wales debut against Argentina in 2011 and has won 27 caps for his country as well as touring Australia with the British and Irish Lions in 2013.

His new contract comes following Ospreys' recent signing of Wales flanker Dan Lydiate on a dual contract with the Welsh Rugby Union.

Lydiate came off the bench to make his debut in Ospreys' 31-20 Pro12 win over Ulster.

Ospreys general manager Andrew Millward said Tipuric's new contract was a boost to the region and signalled their ambition.

"The Ospreys have a bright future, we are creating an environment that players want to be a part of," Millward said.

"Hard work on and off the field over the last two years means that we are now well placed to not only retain our leading position in Wales but to continue to challenge at the highest level over the coming seasons."