In the ever-evolving landscape of rugby, the close of the season ushers in a time of poignant farewells and exciting new beginnings. The Bristol Bears and Saracens are set to part ways with several key players, while the Stormers and Edinburgh have secured the talents of their stalwarts, Deon Fourie and Ewan Ashman, respectively, with contract extensions.
The Bristol Bears have announced a significant roster change, bidding adieu to 12 players. Among them, Santiago Grondona is set to continue his career with Top 14 side Pau after a commendable stint at Ashton Gate, where he appeared 31 times and notched up six tries. Full-back Rich Lane and local lad James Dun are also departing, having given their all for the club over multiple seasons.
"This stage of the season is always a difficult one because we’re saying goodbye to players and people who have made a huge contribution to Bristol Bears both on and off the field during their time here. Every one of these players have put their bodies on the line and shown tremendous commitment to our Bears Vision and should be proud of what they’ve achieved at the club. They will always remain part of the Bears family,"
expressed Pat Lam, Bristol Bears director of rugby.
Meanwhile, North London's Saracens are seeing the exit of Gareth Simpson, Louie Johnson, and Sam Spink as their contracts conclude. These players have been integral to the team's dynamics, contributing significantly across domestic and European competitions.
In the southern hemisphere, veteran Springboks forward Deon Fourie has re-signed with the Stormers. Despite a challenging knee injury, Fourie's leadership and experience remain invaluable, especially following his pivotal role in the Springboks' World Cup victory. He is expected to make a comeback by the Stormers’ next season opener, coinciding with his 40th birthday.
Up north, Edinburgh’s hooker Ewan Ashman has agreed to a three-year extension, anchoring him to the Scottish capital until 2030. Ashman, known for his dynamic play, ended the season as Edinburgh’s top try-scorer and swept the club’s major awards. His performances have not only elevated the team but have also earned him international accolades, including a British & Irish Lions cap.
"Edinburgh has become home for me and my partner, Caitlin, and that means everything. I love this club, I love this city, and I genuinely have a smile on my face every time I come into work. That’s something pretty unique and not something I take for granted. I know this is a special group. We’re hungry for success and we want to take this team to the next level. The desire in this squad to win something together is real, and I want to be part of that,"
said Ashman, reflecting his deep connection with the club and city.
Sean Everitt, Edinburgh's head coach, also praised Ashman: "Ewan is a world-class player – there’s no other way to describe him. He’s a huge player for Edinburgh Rugby and for Scotland, and his British & Irish Lions cap last summer was thoroughly deserved."
As players come and go, the essence of rugby's enduring spirit—its community, commitment, and shared aspirations—remains a constant, compelling narrative that continues to draw fans around the globe.
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In the ever-evolving landscape of rugby, the close of the season ushers in a time of poignant farewells and exciting new beginnings. The Bristol Bears and Saracens are set to part ways with several key players, while the Stormers and Edinburgh have secured the talents of their stalwarts, Deon Fourie and Ewan Ashman, respectively, with contract extensions.
The Bristol Bears have announced a significant roster change, bidding adieu to 12 players. Among them, Santiago Grondona is set to continue his career with Top 14 side Pau after a commendable stint at Ashton Gate, where he appeared 31 times and notched up six tries. Full-back Rich Lane and local lad James Dun are also departing, having given their all for the club over multiple seasons.
"This stage of the season is always a difficult one because we’re saying goodbye to players and people who have made a huge contribution to Bristol Bears both on and off the field during their time here. Every one of these players have put their bodies on the line and shown tremendous commitment to our Bears Vision and should be proud of what they’ve achieved at the club. They will always remain part of the Bears family,"
expressed Pat Lam, Bristol Bears director of rugby.Meanwhile, North London's Saracens are seeing the exit of Gareth Simpson, Louie Johnson, and Sam Spink as their contracts conclude. These players have been integral to the team's dynamics, contributing significantly across domestic and European competitions.
In the southern hemisphere, veteran Springboks forward Deon Fourie has re-signed with the Stormers. Despite a challenging knee injury, Fourie's leadership and experience remain invaluable, especially following his pivotal role in the Springboks' World Cup victory. He is expected to make a comeback by the Stormers’ next season opener, coinciding with his 40th birthday.
Up north, Edinburgh’s hooker Ewan Ashman has agreed to a three-year extension, anchoring him to the Scottish capital until 2030. Ashman, known for his dynamic play, ended the season as Edinburgh’s top try-scorer and swept the club’s major awards. His performances have not only elevated the team but have also earned him international accolades, including a British & Irish Lions cap.
"Edinburgh has become home for me and my partner, Caitlin, and that means everything. I love this club, I love this city, and I genuinely have a smile on my face every time I come into work. That’s something pretty unique and not something I take for granted. I know this is a special group. We’re hungry for success and we want to take this team to the next level. The desire in this squad to win something together is real, and I want to be part of that,"
said Ashman, reflecting his deep connection with the club and city.Sean Everitt, Edinburgh's head coach, also praised Ashman: "Ewan is a world-class player – there’s no other way to describe him. He’s a huge player for Edinburgh Rugby and for Scotland, and his British & Irish Lions cap last summer was thoroughly deserved."
As players come and go, the essence of rugby's enduring spirit—its community, commitment, and shared aspirations—remains a constant, compelling narrative that continues to draw fans around the globe.