#5. Sam Wolstenholme (Leicester Tigers)
The 23-year-old former Wasps number nine, who joined Leicester Tigers on a short-term deal in January, has made 32 appearances in the Gallagher Premiership.
Wolstenholme attended Oakham School before furthering his studies at Loughborough University, while still a member of the Yorkshire Academy, and spent time on loan with Hull Ioanians while playing for Carnegie.
Director of Rugby, Pat Lam, said: “I’m really pleased to be able to bring someone of Sam’s quality and experience to the Bears. As another young English player with huge ambition and desire to succeed, he will fit into our group perfectly.
“Competition is vital within the squad for us to grow and I believe we have genuine competition at scrum half for next season, with Sam, Harry Randall, Kieran Marmion and Oscar Lennon all competing for selection.”
Wolstenholme said: “I’m really looking forward to joining Bristol Bears. They’re a club with exciting players, great facilities and play a good brand of rugby. I’m excited to see what next season brings.”
#6 .Benhard Janse van Rensburg (London Irish)
Bristol Bears have signed former London Irish centre Benhard Janse van Rensburg.
The 26-year-old versatile South African midfielder, who can operate at inside and outside centre and also cover fly-half, will join up with Pat Lam’s squad when they return for pre-season training on Monday, June 19th.
Van Rensburg made more than 50 appearances for the Exiles over two seasons, scoring 11 Premiership tries. During the 2022/23 season, the former Free State Cheetah made six tries assists and beat 33 defenders.
Director of Rugby, Pat Lam, said: “Benhard has been one of the outstanding centres in the Gallagher Premiership over the past two seasons so we’re pleased to be able to bring a player of his quality to the Bears.
“I believe Benhard will add real quality to our squad on and off the field. His experience, versatility and well-rounded skill set on both sides of the ball will make him a superb addition to our team. We’re pleased to welcome Benhard and his wife Eljoné to the Bears family.”
Van Rensburg added: “I’m excited to be at Bristol Bears. It’s been a tough couple of weeks for me, but I’m pleased to be here in Bristol and can’t wait to get started with the Bears.
“The facilities here are incredible and I’m looking forward to meeting my new teammates when pre-season starts on Monday. I’m ambitious to grow my game and help the team in any way that I can.”