In a move set to shake up the rugby world, Jean Kleyn, the towering Springboks lock, will be departing Munster to join the ranks of Gloucester for the 2026/27 season. This transfer sees the seasoned international bring his imposing game from the United Rugby Championship to the Premiership, adding a layer of intrigue to Gloucester's campaign.
Kleyn, who towers at 6’8” and has been a key player for Munster for over a decade, is celebrated for his robust physicality, tireless work-rate, and exemplary leadership. His contributions have been pivotal in Munster's successes, including their URC triumphs during Graham Rowntree's tenure. Moreover, his international experience with Ireland and a World Cup win with South Africa in 2023 underscore his high-caliber pedigree.
Gloucester’s Director of Rugby, George Skivington, expressed his enthusiasm about the new signing.
"Jean is a player I have admired for a long time. He brings real edge, experience, and a winning mentality, which will be invaluable for our group,"
Skivington remarked. He further highlighted that Kleyn’s "physical presence and professionalism will raise standards across the squad."
The sentiments were echoed by Kleyn himself, who is eager to start his new chapter at Kingsholm.
"I’m thrilled to be joining Gloucester Rugby next season. It’s a club with incredible history and a passionate fan base, and the vision shared with me really matched what I was looking for in the next chapter of my career,"
said Kleyn. He is looking forward to engaging with the supporters and contributing his all to the team.
Back at Munster, the departure of such a stalwart player evokes a bittersweet response. Ian Costello, Munster Rugby General Manager, described Kleyn as "an exceptional character" and acknowledged his profound impact on and off the field. "JK is a hugely popular member of the squad and I know he will be hugely missed by the playing group and all of those who work with him on a daily basis," Costello stated, assuring that the team is motivated to make this season a memorable one for Kleyn and his family.
As preparations for the new season get underway in the summer, the rugby community will no doubt be watching closely to see how Jean Kleyn's presence will transform the dynamics at Gloucester and how Munster adapts to this significant change.
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In a move set to shake up the rugby world, Jean Kleyn, the towering Springboks lock, will be departing Munster to join the ranks of Gloucester for the 2026/27 season. This transfer sees the seasoned international bring his imposing game from the United Rugby Championship to the Premiership, adding a layer of intrigue to Gloucester's campaign.
Kleyn, who towers at 6’8” and has been a key player for Munster for over a decade, is celebrated for his robust physicality, tireless work-rate, and exemplary leadership. His contributions have been pivotal in Munster's successes, including their URC triumphs during Graham Rowntree's tenure. Moreover, his international experience with Ireland and a World Cup win with South Africa in 2023 underscore his high-caliber pedigree.
Gloucester’s Director of Rugby, George Skivington, expressed his enthusiasm about the new signing.
"Jean is a player I have admired for a long time. He brings real edge, experience, and a winning mentality, which will be invaluable for our group,"
Skivington remarked. He further highlighted that Kleyn’s "physical presence and professionalism will raise standards across the squad."The sentiments were echoed by Kleyn himself, who is eager to start his new chapter at Kingsholm.
"I’m thrilled to be joining Gloucester Rugby next season. It’s a club with incredible history and a passionate fan base, and the vision shared with me really matched what I was looking for in the next chapter of my career,"
said Kleyn. He is looking forward to engaging with the supporters and contributing his all to the team.Back at Munster, the departure of such a stalwart player evokes a bittersweet response. Ian Costello, Munster Rugby General Manager, described Kleyn as "an exceptional character" and acknowledged his profound impact on and off the field. "JK is a hugely popular member of the squad and I know he will be hugely missed by the playing group and all of those who work with him on a daily basis," Costello stated, assuring that the team is motivated to make this season a memorable one for Kleyn and his family.
As preparations for the new season get underway in the summer, the rugby community will no doubt be watching closely to see how Jean Kleyn's presence will transform the dynamics at Gloucester and how Munster adapts to this significant change.