Falcons add more international class

 international Carlo del Fava is the latest acquisition to Newcastle Falcons, as the North East outfit step up their chase for new recruits ahead of the 2012-13 season.
 
Del Fava, 30, who has racked up 54 caps for the Azzurri, follows fellow lock forward Scott MacLeod through the doors at Kingston Park.
 
Making his international bow against Wales at the Millennium Stadium in Italy’s 2004 Six Nations campaign, Del Fava has enjoyed a stellar international career.
 
South African-born del Fava, who qualifies for Italy through his Italian father, was a member of the Italy squad at both the 2007 and 2011 Rugby World Cups, and has been a cornerstone of their pack in the Six Nations over the last few years.
 
Del Fava’s international exploits combined with his illustrious playing career has underlined the Italian’s credentials as an experienced lock-forward.
 
His former clubs include Natal Sharks, Rugby Parma, Bourgoin, Ulster, Viadana and more recently Aironi where he was exposed to regular Heineken Cup rugby.
 
Speaking to the Falcons official website, del Fava said: “Newcastle Falcons are a club that is on the up and I am really looking forward to the challenge of playing in England.
 
“There are some exciting times ahead for the club, further strengthened by the appointment of Dean Richards as director of rugby.
 
“I am delighted to have signed for a club with a bright future and my family and I look forward to making a new home in the North East.”
 
The signing of del Fava further demonstrates the club’s commitment to its fans on ensuring top-class rugby in the region.