Ryan Jones leaves Ospreys to join Bristol

Ospreys Ryan Jones is tackled by Nothampton's Lee Dickson and Courtney Lawes during the Heineken Cup pool stages Credit: David Davies/PA Wire/Press Association Images

Former Wales and Ospreys captain Ryan Jones has joined the exodus of Welsh internationals from the Pro 12 by signing for English Championship side Bristol.

33 year old Jones, who has won 75 caps for Wales and a further three for the British and Irish Lions, has signed a two year deal at the club.

The Newport-born back-rower has spent a decade with the Ospreys and will reunite with his old regional coach Sean Holley at Bristol next season.

Jones still had 12 months left to run on his Ospreys contract but has decided to move on before the end of his current deal.

The former Celtic Warrior was ruled out of this years Six Nations tournament with a hamstring injury but is expected to play a part in the Ospreys quest for a place in the end of season play-offs in the Pro 12.

Jones is the third Welsh player to sign for Bristol for next season joining Osprey's team mate Matthew Morgan and Sale scrum half Dwayne Peel.