Triple swoop for Exiles

Published: Monday, 2. July, 2012 in category London Irish
Smith: Pleased with new additions

Malton joins from Johannesburg University. The hooker has previously been with the Sharks Academy and led their 2011 U21 Currie Cup side.

Ellis joins from Llandovery College where he had the honour of being captain and was one of just two boys from Welsh schools to be named in the Rugby World Magazine All Stars Team of the Year 2012. Ellis has the ability to play everywhere in the pack and has shone at flank, eight and hooker.

"I rate Gerard as highly as any boy we have handled in the college over the years, and I am not exaggerating when I say that includes the likes of Craig Quinnell, Gwyn Jones, Alun Wyn Jones and George North," said the college's Current Head Coach and former Harlequins first team coach Iestyn Thomas.

Gaston meanwhile joins the Academy from Ulster. The Irishman is comfortable playing on both the wing and at full-back where he is able to make use of his physical power in attack.

After impressing for the Ulster Ravens, Gaston was rewarded with a call up to the full Ulster squad where he won his first cap against the Dragons in March 2011. Gaston went on to be a regular fixture in the Ulster squad for the remainder of the RaboDirect PRO12 season.

"I have been very impressed with Shaun since he has been training with us. He is showing great work ethic and enthusiasm which is fantastic. It is also important that we recruit the right players into our Academy. I have been equally impressed with what I have seen of both Gerard and Conor and look forward to watching them both develop further during their time in the Academy," said London Irish director of rugby, Brian Smith.