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Gloucester Sign Connacht Lock Joe Joyce for 2026/27

The 31-year-old becomes the club’s fifth confirmed incoming for next season, underscoring a push to add experience in the second row.

Overview

  • Joyce returns to the Gallagher Premiership after a stint with Connacht, where he has made 46 appearances in the United Rugby Championship.
  • He previously made 150 appearances for hometown club Bristol Bears from 2014 to 2023 and earned their Players’ Player of the Season award in 2018.
  • Director of rugby George Skivington praised Joyce as big, physical and uncompromising and highlighted his leadership value for younger forwards.
  • Joyce said he is excited to join Gloucester and aims to set high standards and use his experience to drive the group forward.
  • The lock joins a recruitment class that includes Jean Kleyn, Dewi Lake, Jac Morgan and Dan Robson as Gloucester target greater size and leadership up front.