The 25-year-old back rower was released by Cardiff Rugby at the end of the 2022-23 campaign and was quickly snapped up by his former employers to boost their pack. Ratti was born in Swansea and learned his rugby at Dunvant RFC, Gower College and Llandovery College.
He played for Wales U20 in 2016 and made his professional debut for the Ospreys in 2018 against Zebre having picked up some Premiership rugby at Aberavon. Initially a second row, he was successfully converted to No 8 by Dai Young at Cardiff after he had been thrown a lifeline by Cardiff RFC coach Steve Law when he initially left the Ospreys.
Last summer he was included in the Wales squad that toured South Africa and played 58 games for Cardiff before leaving at the end of the season.
“We’re delighted to have James back at the Ospreys. He’s a talented player who knows the Ospreys well, having been part of our academy and development pathway,” said Ospreys head coach Toby Booth.
“He will give us much needed depth in the back row, and he’ll also provide a fresh injection of real quality. He’s a powerful ball carrier and will add a new dynamic to our attack.
“He’s made some real strides as an individual and as a player, and we look forward to seeing him build on his progress again as an Osprey.”
The Ospreys have lost back row man Ethan Roots to Exeter Chiefs, but have managed to retain most of their squad for next season. Ratti will compete with Morgan Morris, Rhys Davies, Justin Tipuric, Jac Morgan, Harry Deaves and Sam Cross for a back row slot.
“It’s brilliant to be back at my home region. There’s a quality young core here and I know a lot of the boys from my time here,” said Ratti.
“I met up with Toby before making my decision and it was clear to see what the team are aiming to do in both the long term and the short. There’s some great players here in the back row and I’m looking forward to testing myself alongside some of the biggest names in Welsh rugby.”
