Pirates sign Chiefs prop Keast on loan

Billy Keast played for England at under-20 level

Cornish Pirates have signed prop Billy Keast on loan from Premiership side Exeter Chiefs for the upcoming season.

The 27-year-old has made 50 appearances for the Chiefs since his debut in 2016, but was also dual registered with Pirates during the 2017-18 and 2018-19 seasons.

Keast, a former England youth level player at under-18s, under-19s and under-20s, is a Cornwall native, while his father Richard previously played for the Pirates.

"We are absolutely delighted that Billy will be with us this coming season, as I think we need the experience he can offer in the front row," said Pirates' joint-head coach Alan Paver.

"Billy has played in the Premiership, and we expect those young guys around him are going to really enjoy his knowledge."

The Championship season starts on Friday, 20 September, with Pirates travelling to Nottingham for their opening fixture.