Gloucester Rugby to Test New Combinations Against Munster

Gloucester Rugby is set to kick off its 2025/26 pre-season campaign with a match against Irish powerhouse Munster at Kingsholm on August 25, 2025. This opening fixture promises to be a significant opportunity for the Cherry and Whites to evaluate new player combinations following a summer overhaul that saw 19 players depart the club. Director of Rugby George Skivington and his coaching staff have focused on fostering team chemistry, with new Irish international fly-half Ross Byrne, recently acquired from Leinster, expected to play a central role in the club’s attacking strategy.

As preparations unfold, several key players, including returning English internationals and British and Irish Lion Tomos Williams, will not participate in this match. Players such as Seb Atkinson, Arthur Clark, Charlie Atkinson, and Afo Fasogbon have only just begun training, having recently concluded their off-season due to participation with the national team in tours of Argentina and the USA.

With the team undergoing substantial changes, Atkinson, who was recently appointed vice-captain, remarked on the significance of this weekend’s game. He stated, “I think this weekend we’re trying out a few different combinations, particularly across the back line and the back row. It’ll just be a good chance for everyone to get out there and remember what rugby feels like.”

The arrival of 13 new players has resulted in a reshuffling of the squad hierarchy, creating an intriguing atmosphere as the Cherry and Whites work towards their Gallagher Premiership opener against Sale Sharks. Atkinson noted, “Me and Arthur have been back this week and we’ve noticed there’s a really good competitive squad at the moment. I think we’ve got a lot of different options in many positions now.”

The back row, in particular, will be a focal point during pre-season training and the Premiership Rugby Cup matches. With notable departures such as Zach Mercer, Albert Tuisue, and Ruan Ackermann, Skivington will be assessing new talent including James Venter, Jack Mann, Hugh Bokenham, and Josh Basham. Atkinson expressed optimism about the depth and versatility within the squad, stating, “I think particularly across the back row we’ve got a lot of options now, some big powerful ball carriers but also those who have good handling skills. It will be exciting to see a blend and some competition there.”

As the team gears up for their pre-season opener, the focus will remain on applying their training strategies in a competitive environment. The outcome of this match against Munster will not only provide players with valuable game time but will also serve as a critical assessment of Gloucester’s evolving squad dynamics.