England international Jonny Hill has confirmed his departure from Sale Sharks

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The 30-year-old, who has earned 23 caps for England and represented the British & Irish Lions during their 2021 tour to South Africa, joined Sale from Exeter Chiefs ahead of the 2022/23 season. Since his arrival, Hill has made over 50 appearances for the Sharks, scoring eight tries, including 14 appearances this season.

Hill’s England career kicked off in the delayed 2020 Six Nations Championship, and he marked his international try-scoring debut against Italy in the 2021 Six Nations. That same year, the lock was selected by Lions head coach Warren Gatland for the summer tour to South Africa, where he played alongside his Sale teammate Tom Curry.

The lock’s most recent test cap came in a warm-up game ahead of the 2024 Rugby World Cup, marking the end of his international career.

Sharks Director of Rugby Alex Sanderson reflected on Hill’s impact at the club: “Jonny was one of the first major signings when I arrived, and that really set the tone for the direction we were heading. He’s been brilliant for us, whether on the pitch or off it. His calm demeanor belies his intensity on the field, and that drive is infectious across the team.”

“We fully understand his decision to leave. He’s seeking new adventures with his young family, and while I’ll miss him, we wish him all the best for the future.”