Bristol Bears have confirmed a lengthy departures list ahead of the 2023/24 Gallagher Premiership season, with 17 confirmed players set to depart the club. The Bears have also made some key signings, with the likes of Saracens winger Max Malins set to bolster Bristol’s reduced attack.
There are some significant names with the Bear’s departure list, as the likes of Joe Joyce, Charles Piutau, Andy Uren and Semi Radradra are moving out of Ashton Gate. This adds to the mid-season departures, as Luke Morahan, Elliott Stooke, Tom Whiteley and Jake Armstrong all left during the course of Bristol’s 2022/23 campaign.
Bristol Head Coach Pat Lam discussed the tightening grip of the Premiership’s salary cap, and the new-look Bears side ahead of next season.
“While the challenges of managing the salary cap reduction mean that next season’s 41-man squad is the smallest we have had during my time here, I’m excited by the new players coming in, the talent we have retained and the quality of the Academy players coming through.” Lam said to Bristol Live
“This time of the year is always difficult as we say farewell to some great people who have contributed significantly to the club, on and off the field, throughout their time with the Bears.
“We thank them for their hard work, and they can all be very proud of their efforts and achievements here. Once a Bear, always a Bear.
“As we do every season, we will be honouring these players in-house next week and there will be an opportunity for supporters to show their appreciation at Ashton Gate following the conclusion of the Gloucester game on Saturday, May 6th.
Confirmed Bristol Bears leavers list:
Joe Joyce (163 apps)
Andy Uren (157 apps),
Ioan Lloyd (79 apps)