Leicester Tigers fly-half Charlie Titcombe will spend the remainder of the season in Japan after joining Mitsubishi Sagamihara DynaBoars on loan for the upcoming Japan Rugby League One campaign. The Tigers Academy graduate returned to Leicester from Scarlets earlier this year and has featured prominently in the Premiership Rugby Cup, starting wins over Harlequins and Newcastle Falcons. He has also gained valuable experience in Europe, featuring against Stade Rochelais in the Investec Champions Cup.
Leicester head coach Geoff Parling believes the move will accelerate Titcombe’s development, particularly in a demanding playmaking role.
“This is a great chance for Charlie to develop his game in a new environment,” Parling said. “The high speed of the game in Japan is an ideal way to accelerate his progress, particularly as a fly-half learning to control matches against high-quality opposition.”
Titcombe will link up with DynaBoars head coach Glenn Delaney and backs coach Joe Maddock, while also following in the footsteps of Tigers teammates Harry Palmer and Lewis Chessum, who have previously spent time at the Sagamihara-based club.
Tigers’ Head of Pathways James Wade highlighted the benefits of the growing partnership between the clubs, pointing to both on-field development and cultural experience.
For Titcombe, the focus is clear: consistent game time.
“Japan will give me the chance to play week-in, week-out at a really high level,” he said. “It’s a fast, attacking league and I’m excited to develop my game and bring that experience back to Leicester next summer.”
The loan continues Leicester’s strategy of using overseas partnerships to aid player progression.
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