Former England and Lions star comes out of retirement to sign with Worcester Warriors

The 36-year-old centre, capped 22 times by England and a British & Irish Lions tourist in 2013, hung up his boots last year to take on a coaching position with Championship side Hartpury. But now, he’s back—and ready to make an impact both on and off the pitch.

“Joining Worcester Warriors as a player-coach is a fantastic opportunity,” said Twelvetrees. “I’m excited to be contributing both on and off the field, helping to develop talent and bring real energy to the squad. It’s a challenge I’m ready for and I can’t wait to get started.”

Twelvetrees brings a wealth of experience from a decorated 17-year playing career. He made his breakthrough at Bedford Blues before a move to Leicester Tigers in 2009, where he won the Premiership title in his debut season. In 2012, he joined Gloucester, going on to make a remarkable 273 appearances over 11 years with the Cherry and Whites.

He now reunites with former Tigers teammate Matt Everard, who took over as Worcester’s head coach in May.

“Billy is one of those special people that after spending just a short amount of time with, you’ll never forget,” said Everard. “Kind, incredibly hard-working and always has such a positive impact on people.”

Worcester’s return to professional rugby, following their 2022 administration and enforced hiatus, is starting to gather real momentum. Twelvetrees is one of several high-profile additions to the squad ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

Other new signings include Uruguay international Juan Gonzalez, props Tim Hoyt (Leicester Tigers) and Billy Keast (Exeter Chiefs), Cornish Pirates full-back Will Trewin, Warriors stalwart Matt Kvesic, former Wales scrum-half Lloyd Williams, Saracens front-rower Fraser Balmain, and Dragons fly-half Will Reed.

With Twelvetrees adding experience and leadership, the Warriors’ resurrection is firmly underway.

The flanker is a former English rugby union player who captained the national team from 2012 to 2015.

Known for his exceptional work rate and leadership skills, Robshaw was a dynamic flanker who made a significant impact on the field. He enjoyed a successful club career with Harlequins, where he played for over a decade. Robshaw's dedication and commitment to the sport earned him numerous accolades and the respect of his peers.

Off the field, he is admired for his philanthropic efforts, using his platform to support various charitable causes.

Owens said: "Some people will be surprised at this one to start off. His misfortune was perhaps to be leading England during a difficult time, but he always gave everything for the cause, encouraging others to follow suit, and he was a nice guy off the pitch."

He is a retired South African rugby union player who made a lasting impact on the international stage.

As a versatile back, he showcased his skills and leadership abilities as the captain of the Springboks from 2012 to 2015.

De Villiers' playing career spanned over a decade, during which he exhibited exceptional athleticism and a powerful presence on the field.

He was widely respected for his tactical knowledge, unwavering commitment, and ability to inspire his teammates.

De Villiers remains an influential figure in the rugby world and continues to contribute to the sport through coaching and commentary.

Owens said: "He was not only a great rugby player but also a great leader and a great man. Whenever I came across him on the field, he impressed me."

McCaw is a legendary New Zealand rugby union player widely regarded as one of the greatest openside flankers in the history of the game.

The flankers career was defined by his exceptional skills, relentless work rate, and unparalleled leadership abilities.

He captained the All Blacks to back-to-back Rugby World Cup victories in 2011 and 2015, solidifying his status as a true icon of the sport.

Known for his ability to win turnovers and dominate the breakdown, McCaw's impact on the game was immeasurable. Beyond his playing career, he continues to be an influential figure, inspiring future generations of rugby players.

Owens said: "He’s right up on any list of rugby’s greatest players.

"Maybe he will be at the top for many people.

"New Zealand won something like nine out of every 10 games in which he led them, but the mark of Richie McCaw was how he conducted himself when the All Blacks lost."

O'Connell is a former Irish rugby union player known for his towering presence and exceptional leadership skills.

As a lock, he captained Ireland and the British and Irish Lions, leading them to memorable victories. O'Connell's fearless competitiveness and humility made him a respected figure in the rugby community.

Meanwhile, O'Driscoll is an iconic Irish rugby union player and one of the greatest centres in the game's history.

His exceptional skill set, speed, and agility made him a constant threat on the field. O'Driscoll captained both Ireland and the British and Irish Lions, leaving a lasting legacy in the sport.

Owens said: "I’m classing this as a joint-ticket as whenever I seemed to ref Ireland in their day O’Driscoll was captain and O’Connell was vice-skipper.

"O’Driscoll actually used to tell me if there were issues with the forwards then I should chat to O’Connell.

I found them excellent to deal with."

Dusautoir is a retired French rugby union player renowned for his incredible defensive skills and fearless tackling. As a flanker, he captained the French national team from 2009 to 2015 and was a key figure in their formidable defense.

The flankers physicality, tenacity, and ability to disrupt opponents' play made him a formidable force on the field. He earned numerous accolades throughout his career, including the prestigious World Rugby Player of the Year award in 2011.

Dusautoir's leadership and dedication to the sport have left a lasting legacy, inspiring aspiring rugby players around the world.

Owens said: "My choice as the best skipper I encountered may raise a few eyebrows, but what a captain Dusautoir was.

"He unfailingly put his body on the line throughout his career — recall the 38 tackles he made when France knocked the All Blacks out of the 2007 World Cup — led by example and understood the game very well."

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