Scrum-half Raffi Quirke has expressed his excitement about the project at Newcastle Red Bulls, despite calling his departure from Sale Sharks one of the hardest decisions he has ever made. Quirke is among 25 new players joining the club, which has finished bottom of the table for the last four seasons.
The 25-year-old is keen to push Newcastle forward in what he describes as a new era. He told the Rugby Union Weekly podcast that he felt he was at a point in his career where he needed a new chapter and to step out of his comfort zone.
Quirke noted significant changes at Kingston Park, including new coaches, revamped changing rooms, and harder fitness sessions, which existing players have reportedly welcomed. He also highlighted the challenge and excitement of building relationships with new teammates from diverse backgrounds, including New Zealand, South Africa, Ireland, and France.
Beyond the club project, Quirke's main goal is to work his way back into the England setup consistently. He stated that coaches and higher-ups want him back playing for England and pushing his limits, a prospect he finds motivating.