The sole Scot in the 2008 starting 7, it is fair to say that Ross has been one of the surprise signings of the winter.
The past has been well documented, particularly the turning down of offers to ride for the Tigers for three years running, but that is all of no consequence now as what matters is the future.
After suffering from injuries and a crises of confidence, Ross has struggled to live up to his 2004 league winning form with Hull. He spent most of last season at Newcastle, being dropped at the beginning of August, ironically after one of his best performances of the season at Armadale.
There is no doubt that he looks a steal on his 5.40 average and he has confirmed that he is raring to go. With the lower average and more realistic expectations on him this season, it could prove to be a very shrewd signing. He has shown in the past - particularly in the Pairs in 2005 - that he can find the best lines round Ashfield and with the support behind him should be able to find his form quite quickly.