Leicester Tigers have revealed that George Martin has committed to the club by signing a multiyear agreement.
A graduate of Leicester Tigers academy, Martin made his debut in 2019 and has earned 69 caps for the club to date, including an appearance off the bench in the 2021/22 Gallagher Premiership final.
The 22-year-old lock was one of England’s standout performers at Rugby World Cup 2023, his performance against South Africa in the Semi-Final showing a glimpse of what’s to come from the Nottingham native.
Martin returned to Tigers action in Sunday’s Investec Champions Cup victory over Stade Francais, his potential as a physical force in defence and with ball-in-hand evident as it was in Paris in October.
Leicester Tigers lock, George Martin said: “I’m really happy to be staying with Tigers.”
“Coming through the Academy here, I get to come into work every day, play for a great club with my mates and I’m excited to work with Dan and develop in the program that we have here.
“It was great to get back on the field last week and Exeter is another big challenge for our group but playing for this club, in Leicester is special I’m looking forward to getting back home to Mattioli Woods Welford Road.”
Leicester Tigers General Manager, Richard Wilks said: “For our Club, seeing a young man come in as an Academy player and develop to where George is now, knowing he’s still got so much growth, is tremendously rewarding.”
“The Rugby World Cup showed where George is going as a player and he’s brought that experience back to our environment and showed what a leader he can become in the future.
“He’s a player with Tiger’s DNA running through him; tough, physical and committed and we’re delighted he’s committed his future to the Club.”
Rugby Quiz:
The 30 best rugby players in the world have been ranked, Owen Farrell 29th
#30. Dan Sheehan (Ireland)
A rising Irish hooker known for his powerful scrummaging and dynamic play in open field. Sheehan’s agility and tackling prowess make him a vital asset in set pieces and loose play alike, hinting at a promising future in international rugby
#29. Owen Farrell (England)
England’s steadfast captain and fly-half, Farrell’s tactical brilliance and accurate kicking guide his team’s gameplay. Renowned for his leadership, his defensive grit and ability to control the game’s pace make him a linchpin in England’s rugby strategy.
Wales Online wrote: “The 31-year-old has been in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons recently but is a player you’d rather play with than against. Farrell is a natural leader of men, and will play a crucial role if England are to drag themselves out of the rut they find themselves in.”
#28. Thibaud Flament (France)
A versatile lock for France, Flament’s towering presence in the lineout and ferocious work rate define his style. With his strong carrying and breakdown skills, he is a force to be reckoned with in both set-piece dominance and open-field encounters.
#27. Shannon Frizell (New Zealand)
Frizzell’s imposing physique and aggressive ball-carrying mark him as a formidable All Black flanker. His offloading ability, coupled with his defensive prowess, cements his position as a player who consistently makes his presence felt on the field.
#26. Steven Kitshoff (South Africa)
An anchor of the Springboks’ scrum, Kitshoff’s experience and technical expertise are unmatched. His exceptional work rate and relentless tackling contribute to his reputation as a reliable front-row stalwart, key to South Africa’s forward dominance.