Cornish Pirates agree deals for Nelson and Ribbans

Hooker Morgan Nelson spent time in Gloucester's academy earlier in his career

Hooker Morgan Nelson and centre Chester Ribbons have agreed to return to Cornish Pirates permanently in the summer.

Nelson, 25, joined Premiership side Gloucester in October after almost four years at the Championship club, where he had scored 19 tries in 49 appearances.

But the former Wales Under 18 player has struggled to break into the Cherry and Whites' side, playing exclusively in the Premiership Rugby Cup and European Challenge Cup.

Meanwhile Exeter back Ribbons, 22, has been dual registered at the club this season where he has played 11 times.

"Before he left us Morgan was rightly earmarked as one of the best hookers in the Championship, and he now has the experience of having been involved at a top-level environment," Cornish Pirates joint-head coach Alan Paver said.

"We are clearly delighted that he'll be back with us, as he is still young and ambitious and has a lot of rugby ahead of him yet.

"It's a massive plus because he knows our set up, will fit back in easily, and he is one of those players who adds something extra, both on and off the field."

On Ribbons' addition fellow coach Gavin Cattle said: "Chester is a big, physical and skilful lad who has certainly showed his potential during his time with us.

"He has ability to play at 12 or 13, and to be a ball player and a ball carrier, which makes him an exciting prospect."