23 May 2005
Bristol Shoguns Head Coach Richard Hill sprang a major surprise this afternoon when he announced the signing of Argentinian international second row Mariano Sambucetti on a two year deal.

Bristol supporters with access to Sky television won't have long to see him in action as he lines up against the British Lions in Cardiff this evening winning his 9th cap in the process.

Mariano travels on an Italian passport and therefore won't count as a 'foreign' player. He has previously played for Buenos Aires Cricket and Rugby Club and also Brive.

His arrival will help to soften the blow of Ed Pearce's unexpected departure last week.

Richard admitted this afternoon that he had been tracking the player for a while.

"We've been talking to Mariano for some time now and I travelled to Cardiff last week where Argentina are preparing for tonight's game and we got the deal signed."

"He's only 25 years old and has been capped eight times already. He's a front jumper so will play at number four. He has signed a two year deal"

"On the pitch, he's a real competitor but, off it, he's a lovely chap who will fit into the squad superbly and having Bernardo and Manu already here is a bonus for him."