Gloucester Rugby aims to rebound from the setback of losing Louis Rees-Zammit, as they announce three notable signings.
Despite their current position second from bottom in the Gallagher Premiership, with just four victories out of 13 matches, the Cherry & Whites are gearing up for a stronger showing in the upcoming season.
However, amidst this challenging campaign, there have been bright spots, notably clinching the Premiership Rugby Cup by defeating Leicester Tigers.
As they set their sights on the future, attention turns to the trio of new recruits, all boasting international pedigree.
#1. Christian Wade
The wing will link up with the Cherry & Whites ahead of the 2024/25 season from Racing 92.
Wade made his professional rugby debut in 2011 for former Gallagher Premiership side, Wasps, where he went on to make 165 appearances for the club.
During the 2012/13 season, Wade was named both Playersβ Player of the Year and the Young Player of the Year, after finishing joint leading try-scorer with 13 tries in the Premiership and was selected for the 2013 British & Irish Lions tour of Australia.
In October 2018, Wade left rugby to pursue a career in American Football, with a dream to play in the National Football League (NFL).
Wade joined the International Player Pathway (IPP), the same programme that former Gloucester wing, Louis Rees-Zammit, recently enrolled on. After graduating the IPP, Wade was contracted to the Buffalo Bills as a running back.
Wade left Buffalo, and the NFL completely, in 2022, paving the way for his return to rugby, joining Parisian side, Racing, for whom he has scored seven tries for so far.
Christian Wade spoke of his elation to be heading back to England.
He said: βIβm excited to be returning to the Premiership next season and for a great Club like Gloucester.
βAfter speaking with George (Skivington), I believe in his vision and ambition for the team and I canβt wait to play my part in that.
βI have fond memories of playing at Kingsholm in Wasps colours so Iβm looking forward to getting out there in Cherry & White next season.β