The fallout fallout from Johan Ackermann's departure from Gloucester could see another Springbok depart the club.
According to a report by specialist publication The Rugby Paper, Ruan Dreyer is the latest member of the English club's substantial South African contingent that wants to leave and is seriously considering a return to Johannesburg.
Ackermann, who notably recruited Dreyer, son Ruan and Jaco Kriel from Ellis Park when he commenced his duties in mid-2017, was confirmed as Japanese franchise NTT Docomo Red Hurricanes' new head coach two weeks ago.
He would be the third Springbok to leave Gloucester, after Jaco Kriel rejoined the Lions and Franco Mostert is reportedly joining Japan's Honda Heat.
The 29-year-old tighthead Dreyer started four Tests for the Springboks under Allister Coetzee in 2017 after a fine Super Rugby campaign, notably delivering a fine performance against the Wallabies in a drawn Rugby Championship clash in Bloemfontein.
LIST | Five senior Gloucester players set for exit in big overhaul
Gloucester are set for a significant overhaul of their playing squad that will end in at least five senior players leaving ahead of the 2020/21 Premiership season…
1. Owen Williams
The 28-year-old would have been in the frame to replace Hadleigh Parkes at international level if he'd decided to join a Welsh region, but according to the Mail Online he's agreed on a move to Japan. Williams can play both fly-half and centre and his ball-playing ability will make him a huge loss for the Cherry & Whites.
2. Charlie Sharples
Making his Gloucester debut in 2007, Sharples is the clubs longest-serving player, scoring 91 tries in 266 outings. However, with game-time becoming limited, there have been suggestions the 30-year-old would face a pay-cut to stay. According to RUCK sources, the speedster does have offers from elsewhere, which could lead to him finishing his career in France.
3. Josh Hohneck
The prop has established himself as a fan favourite at Kingsholm, making over 100 appearances for the Cherry & whites since arriving in 2016. There have been reports in his native New Zealand that he could join Warren Gatland's Chiefs for the 2021 Super Rugby season with a stop off in Japan in-between.
4. Matt Banahan
The winger moved to Gloucester from local rivals Bath Rugby in the summer of 2018. Initially signing a reported two-year deal, the 33-year-old is currently set to be a free agent in the summer as discussions over a contract extension continue to falter. There will not be a shortage of interest if he does become available.
5. Calum Braley
He is to join Pro14 side Benetton at the end of the season. The 26-year-old joined Gloucester from Bristol in 2014 and made his 100th appearance for the Premiership club in December. England-born Braley qualifies for Italy through his grandfather and has won five caps since his debut in August.
TRENDING
LATEST NEWS
LATEST COMMENTS
Loading
