Gloucester make statement with four new signings – including 62-cap All Blacks heavyweight

Thursday, 15 May 2025 at 14:41

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byRugby Rucker

Gloucester Rugby are eyeing a huge coup as they welcome New Zealand international Nepo Laulala to Kingsholm – but don’t get too excited just yet. The 33-year-old tighthead prop isn’t lacing up his boots right away – he’s in town to continue rehab on a nasty Achilles injury that cut short his stint in France.

It’s a move straight from Bath Rugby’s playbook, who famously helped RG Snyman recover from injury before snapping him up. And while Laulala isn’t officially signed, there’s a clear gentleman’s agreement in place: Gloucester will be first in line when he’s ready to return according to Gloucestershire Live.

After the 2023 Rugby World Cup, Laulala joined French heavyweights Toulouse as one of their marquee arrivals. But his time in the Top 14 was short-lived – just a handful of games before a ruptured Achilles sent him to the sidelines. Reports in France suggest Toulouse are happy to cut him loose from the final year of his deal, potentially opening the door for Gloucester to pounce.

Director of Rugby George Skivington hasn’t been shy about shopping for new front-row firepower, and Laulala could be the headline act in a serious summer recruitment drive.

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New recruits keep rolling in at Kingsholm

Laulala’s arrival might be unofficial, but Gloucester have already confirmed three more signings for the 2025/26 season.

They join a bumper crop of arrivals including Ross Byrne, Will Joseph, Ben Loader, James Venter, Ben Redshaw, Jack Mann, Jack Innard and Will Trenholm, all of whom are set to pull on the Cherry & White jersey next term.

Mike Austin makes the permanent leap

One of those latest additions is Mike Austin, the scrum-half who’s been catching the eye on loan from Hartpury RFC. After a string of standout performances, Gloucester have made the move permanent.

“I’m delighted to be joining Gloucester Rugby next season,” said Austin. “Having had the opportunity to play for the Club earlier in the season, I’m really excited to link up full-time.”

The 24-year-old has been a standout in the RFU Championship this season and will add extra competition to the No.9 jersey alongside Tomos Williams and Caolan Englefield.

Aussie ace Hugh Bokenham signs on

Also heading to Kingsholm is versatile forward Hugh Bokenham, who’s joining from Cornish Pirates. The Aussie age-grade international has been one of the Pirates’ top performers this year – including a big shift against Gloucester in the Premiership Rugby Cup.

At 6ft 4in, he offers real versatility across lock and the back row.

“I’m super excited to be joining Gloucester,” Bokenham said. “It’s a massive club with an incredible history – and everyone talks about how special the Kingsholm atmosphere is.”