"Life-changing opportunity" - Bristol Bears departures reach NINE - Page 4 of 5 - Ruck

“Life-changing opportunity” – Bristol Bears departures reach NINE

#7. Ian Lloyd to Scarlets

The Scarlets have made an exciting signing ahead of the 2023-24 season, securing the services of Ioan Lloyd from Bristol and Wales. 

The 22-year-old fly-half, who is also comfortable playing across the backline, returns to Welsh rugby after four years with Bristol.

His ability to read the game and make decisive decisions has already been recognised at the international level, and he is seen as a player with a bright future ahead of him.

“I feel the Scarlets’ game-plan will suit my style of play and I’m excited to get stuck in,” said Lloyd. “I’m looking forward to joining up with the squad and helping the team achieve success on the field.”

https://twitter.com/btsportrugby/status/1398377092908302339

#8. Charles Piutau

With the reduced salary cap restrictions coming into effect, it looks highly likely that the highest paid player in the Gallagher Premiership will be moving on when his contract expires at the end of the season. 

Piutau was the best fullback in the world in his prime. But the former All Black and current Tonga international, who has been at Ashton Gate for four years, is no longer as exciting as he used to be. 

Becoming the leagues first £1m per season player when he joined the club, the Bears are paying an awful lot of money for a player who is no longer best in class.

Charles Piutau of Bristol Bears on the break during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby match between Gloucester Rugby and Bristol Bears at Kingsholm Stadium on December 3 2021 in Gloucester, England. (Photo by Tom Sandberg/PPAUK)

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