Gloucester have confirmed that Franco Marais will return to Kingsholm until the end of the season,
The 27-year-old hooker has previously made 35 appearances for the Cherry & Whites and he will now look to add to that tally before heading to the Red Hurricanes in the Japanese Top League at the conclusion of the 2019-20 Gallagher Premiership campaign.
Franco will re-join the squad for training today, as preparations continue for the eagerly anticipated restart.
JOIN THE RUCK:
Sir Ian McGeechan picks seven Englishmen in his Lions 2021 XV
"On form, I have to go with Sutherland. He's been absolutely brilliant. He's not just a good technical rugby player, he can play, he can run, he makes an impact. His story is an incredible one. I'd love to see him kick on."
"He's not had a brilliant season but he's such a good player and in these circumstances you would get the best out of him. He'd rise to the challenge. He's done it before."
""Itoje is definitely one of them and I'd bracket him as a possible captain. He's a hell of a competitor. When you watch him, he's into everything. He reads things so well, he's niggling, he leads by example. He's a really intelligent lad and a really intelligent rugby player."
✍️ We are pleased to announce that @Franco2Marais has agreed a short-term deal to re-join Gloucester Rugby for the remainder of the 2019-20 season.
Franco will link up with the squad tomorrow. 💪
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