5. Gareth Anscombe – Ospreys —> Saracens
Gareth Anscombe’s injury history makes him the textbook contender for a move out of Wales. An incredibly talented player, Anscombe was unfortunate to miss the 2019 Rugby World Cup due to an ACL injury. These issues re-occurred with the Osprey unable to comfortably gain momentum and establish himself back in the Wales set-up.
Anscombe is expecting to return soon for Ospreys, after he suffered a shoulder injury against Australia in last seasons Autumn Internationals. Maintained fitness could see him selected for the 2023 Rugby World Cup, however Anscombe would be looking at his guaranteed future, and getting contracts on the table after the competition.
A move to Saracens would be good for the New Zealand born back, and re-unite him with Wales teammate Nick Tompkins. Anscombe would benefit from joining Saracens, as the playing demands would not be too great. Owen Farrell would occupy the number 10 jersey, with Anscombe making off the bench appearances at either fly half or full back. The 31-year-old would also get the opportunity to feature from the start, with the calendar’s busy European season and international breaks providing plentiful opportunities to the Saracens rotational players.