Gloucester Rugby has officially announced the signing of centre Phil Cokanasiga, set to join the club ahead of the 2026/27 Gallagher Premiership season.
At just 24 years old, Cokanasiga boasts an impressive rugby pedigree. A London Irish Academy graduate, he transferred to Leicester Tigers in 2022 following Irish’s unfortunate collapse, and also gained valuable Championship experience on loan at Nottingham. Afterward, Cokanasiga spent two productive seasons with the Ospreys in the United Rugby Championship (URC), amassing over 700 minutes this season and crossing the try line four times.
Gloucester’s head coach, George Skivington, expressed confidence in the new signing: “Phil is a talented rugby player who has just completed a successful season with the Ospreys. He will strengthen our already strong midfield and bring additional quality to our squad.”
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The Cherry and Whites midfield boasts strong international talent, including England’s Seb Atkinson—who debuted in the Six Nations recently—Will Joseph, and Wales’ Max Llewellyn. Young prospects such as the Knight brothers continue to rise through the ranks, further deepening Gloucester’s options.
Though Gloucester recently appointed Rob Burgress as general manager of rugby to oversee recruitment, his official start date is April 1, as he finishes his notice period at Bath. This latest signing was facilitated by CEO Alex Brown in collaboration with Skivington.
Cokanasiga is among several former London Irish players now at Gloucester, joining the ranks of Afo Fasogbon, Caolan Englefield, Ben Loader, and Will Joseph, highlighting the growing connection between the two clubs since London Irish’s collapse.
Reflecting on his move, Cokanasiga said, “I’m excited for this new chapter in the Premiership. My time with the Ospreys has prepared me well to return stronger, sharper, and more confident. I already know many players and coaches at Kingsholm, so I’m eager to settle in quickly this summer and perform in front of the Gloucester fans. I can’t wait to be part of the team.”