Wales international fly-half Gareth Anscombe is set to leave Gloucester Rugby at the close of this season, with both clubs confirming his upcoming move to French Top 14 side Bayonne.
Anscombe, who earned 37 caps for Wales, joined Gloucester last summer after a decade playing for Cardiff Blues and Ospreys. Prior to signing with Gloucester, he spent time out of professional rugby following a surgery-requiring groin injury that ended his contract with Tokyo Suntory Sungoliath in Japan.
Despite the setback, Anscombe has made a strong impression during his time at Gloucester, making 14 appearances this season and providing vital experience to the squad. GloucestershireLive reports that director of rugby George Skivington initially considered extending Anscombe’s contract. However, the emergence of younger fly-half Ross Byrne from Leinster influenced Gloucester’s decision to invest in the promising talent as a cornerstone for the next three years. Additionally, England A’s Charlie Atkinson has demonstrated potential as a playmaker, further impacting the club’s roster choices.
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At 33, Anscombe was viewed as a bridging signing to support the team during a transition phase. His leadership and influence have been recognized both on and off the field as Gloucester pushes for a play-off spot with three regular season matches remaining.
In a club statement, Gloucester Rugby expressed their gratitude: “Gloucester Rugby would like to thank Gareth for his time at the club. When the time comes, he will leave with our best wishes for him and his family on their next adventure in France.”
Anscombe took to social media to share his excitement: “I’m really pleased to announce that I will be joining Bayonne next season. I am looking forward to testing myself in the Top 14, which is arguably the most competitive league in the world at the moment.”
Currently sitting fourth in the Top 14 standings, Bayonne confirmed that Anscombe will join on a one-year contract.
Anscombe is among several senior players expected to depart Gloucester this summer, with Chris Harris, Christian Wade, Santi Carreras, Ruan Ackermann, Zach Mercer, and Albert Tuisue also likely to move on.