It is always bittersweet to see a long-serving player leave a club, but Billy Twelvetrees’ contribution to Gloucester Rugby over the past 11 years will undoubtedly be remembered fondly by fans.
His consistent performances on the field, leadership qualities and popularity among supporters have made him a key figure at Kingsholm.
Joining Ealing Trailfinders will provide Twelvetrees with a new challenge and an opportunity to continue playing rugby at a high level.
The Championship is a competitive league, and Twelvetrees’ experience and skillset will undoubtedly be an asset to his new club.
It is worth noting that Twelvetrees’ departure will create a void in Gloucester’s midfield, and the club will need to find a suitable replacement for him.
However, it also presents an opportunity for younger players to step up and fill the void. Gloucester Rugby has a rich history of developing young talent, and it will be interesting to see who will emerge as the next star in the club’s midfield.
Gloucester confirm SIX departure:
Tom Seabrook to Northampton Saints
The 23-year-old will arrive at cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens this summer from Gloucester Rugby, where he progressed through the academy system while also enjoying a stint with Championship side Hartpury University.
Seabrook broke a Gallagher Premiership record back in May 2018, when he scored the fastest try on league debut for the Cherry and Whites against Saracens – crossing the whitewash in just 58 seconds.
He has gone on to score nine more tries in 61 appearances in all competitions for Gloucester, and while he can also line up in the centres when required, Seabrook is relishing the prospect of joining the men in Black, Green and Gold’s stable of back-three players.
“One of the most exciting things about moving to Northampton is the way that the team plays,” Seabrook said. “It’s a really attractive style of rugby, with Saints always topping the charts in line breaks and tries scored.
“As an outside back, that’s something that really appeals to me, and speaking to the coaches there, I know they have the confidence in me to really kick on as a player in the years ahead.
“I’ve played up at Franklin’s Gardens a few times already and I love the ground – it’s a fast pitch, which I hope will suit me, and a fantastic atmosphere walking through the Fan Village before the games, as you’re right in the mix with the supporters.
“The Club’s training facilities are spot on as well, so I’m really excited to get started in the summer. I feel like I am ready to take the next step in my career, and Saints feels like the perfect environment to do so with the players and staff already on board.”