FORMER Worcester Warriors' tighthead prop Nick Schonert has joined Premiership rivals Sale Sharks.

Having been released early from his contract at the end of the 2020/21 season, Schonert becomes Alex Sanderson’s third front-row signing after securing the servies of Tommy Taylor and Simon McIntyre.

Schonert said: "I’m so excited to be part of such an incredible group here at the Sharks.

"At the stage I am at in my career I felt that it was the right time for a change in direction and for me to take myself out of my comfort zone.

"When I got the call from Sale in March it felt like the stars had aligned and I genuinely had to pinch myself to check if I wasn’t dreaming.

"I’m so grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this squad and just hope I can add value wherever I can.”