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Bertrand's Cross Channel Challenge
 

Bertrand Bedes Signs At No.8
May 15th 2008

Keen to secure the services of a quality No. 8, the Cornish Pirates have confirmed that they have found their man to fill the back-row void left by former skipper Tim Cowley.

Bertrand Bedes

As Tim crosses 'La Manche' to join Bourgoin, heading in the opposite direction across the English Channel will be 27 yr old Bertrand Bedes, a Frenchman who will arrive in Cornwall from Pau.

Bertrand, who has also played for Narbonne, will be the second player joining the Cornish Pirates from the French Pro D2 side, alongside 24 times capped Canadian lock Mike Burak.

Commenting on his forthcoming move to Cornwall, Bertrand said:
"Having always played in France, I felt that it was about time to discover a new culture and a new style of rugby. English clubs are much more professional in terms of weight training etc., and I wanted to discover that for myself.

My teammate Mike Burak is also moving to the Pirates, which will help me settle, and I've also spoken to Nicolas Sestaret - moving from Plymouth to Exeter - who told me a lot of good things about the south-west and also about the Pirates.

Coming from Montpelier in France, which is by the coast, it was important for me to find a club that is by the sea and I can't wait to get over and start pre-season."

Surprisingly, Bertrand is likely to be the first Frenchman to wear the Pirates colours, and most certainly in the professional era. He is described as being "brave, powerful, and friendly" , a "Chabal-like figure" who will undoubtedly be immensely popular with supporters.

 

Bertrand Bedes - Profile
D.O.B6th May 1981
Height 6' 4" (1.93m)
Weight 17st (108kgs)
PositionNo 8
Previous clubsNarbonne, Pau

Exner Deal Dashed

It has been confirmed that Canadian prop Iain Exner, who had also signed for the Cornish Pirates from Pau, and was looking forward to a move to Cornwall, has had his hopes dashed.
Rod Coward, the Cornish Pirates CEO, said:

Iain Exner has informed us that he has suffered a serious calf injury, which could mean that he will be unfit to play rugby for up to six months. With regret we have decided that we will not be able to offer him employment with the Cornish Pirates next season.

Iain fully understands and accepts our decision and he has returned home to Canada where hopefully he will enjoy a full recovery from his injury, which will allow him to resume his rugby career.

We are now negotiating to bring a suitable replacement to the Pirates and hope to make an announcement in the near future."

Hemingways resort