Scotland international lock Jonny Gray on his way back to the Gallagher Prem

Tuesday, 30 September 2025 at 09:27

byRugby Rucker

Scotland star Jonny Gray could be set for a shock return to the Gallagher Premiership, with his Bordeaux contract due to expire at the end of the season, according to reports in
Midi Olympique.

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Bordeaux exit on the cards

The 31-year-old lock, who came off the bench in last season’s Top 14 final defeat to Toulouse, has played just three games so far this campaign. Talks with Bordeaux bosses are expected soon, but all signs suggest he will be heading for the exit door.

Proven winner

Gray’s career began with an eight-year stint at Glasgow Warriors before a successful move to Exeter Chiefs, where he lifted both the Premiership and European titles. He joined Bordeaux last summer to bolster their second row but could already be on the move again.

Back to his best

The towering second row has fully recovered from the serious kneecap injury suffered in the 2023 Champions Cup semi-final against La Rochelle, which sidelined him for 15 months.

Gregor Townsend recalled Gray to the Scotland squad in January after nearly two years out, with the lock featuring in four of their five Six Nations games to take his tally to 81 caps.

Premiership clubs circling

With his contract winding down, Premiership sides are already monitoring the situation closely. Bristol Bears are believed to be in the market for more second-row depth, while Newcastle Red Bulls would benefit from his international experience as they continue their rebuild.

Leicester Tigers have also been tipped as a possible destination, with Gray’s physicality fitting perfectly into their pack-heavy game plan.

“Not good enough” – Four Springboks and one England star in 2025 World XV

South Africa and New Zealand dominate the line-up, with France and Italy also making strong contributions.

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World XV

1. Ox Nché (South Africa — Loose-head Prop)

The Springboks’ scrum weapon. Ox Nché’s combination of power, technical precision, and low-body positioning has humbled some of the best tight-heads in the world. He’s been in relentless form, topping performance charts and setting the tone for South Africa’s physical dominance.

2. Dan Sheehan (Ireland — Hooker)

Ireland’s dynamic hooker was a constant bright spark in 2025—scoring tries, leading the set-piece, and offering a constant carrying threat. His Lions tour was standout, even if it ended in controversy with a short suspension. Sheehan’s blend of skill and aggression makes him arguably the most in-form No. 2 in the world.

3. Tyrel Lomax (New Zealand — Tight-head Prop)

Now firmly established as the All Blacks’ anchor on the tight-head side, Lomax offers brute force in the scrum and strong contributions in the loose. His work rate around the field complements his set-piece reliability.

4. Eben Etzebeth (South Africa — Lock)

A veteran enforcer who still plays with the same bite he had a decade ago. Etzebeth’s line-out presence, defensive steel, and leadership remain vital to every team he represents. A genuine intimidator.

5. Maro Itoje (England — Lock)

Captain of the victorious Lions in Australia, Itoje led with both physicality and composure. His tour performances were tireless—dominating the air, disrupting opposition ball, and setting the emotional tone for the squad.

6. Tadhg Beirne (Ireland — Lock/Back-Row)

A turnover machine and line-out threat, Beirne’s versatility makes him a coach’s dream. Whether at blindside or in the second row, he consistently delivers work rate, breakdown steals, and intelligent support play.

7. Pieter-Steph du Toit (South Africa — Lock/Back-Row)

Known for his tireless tackling and unmatched work ethic, du Toit thrives in the big moments. His ability to shift between lock and flanker adds valuable flexibility to any pack.

8. Ardie Savea (New Zealand — No. 8)

A one-man highlight reel, Savea mixes explosive ball-carrying with clever link play and crucial turnovers. His leadership and athleticism make him indispensable for the All Blacks.

9. Antoine Dupont (France — Scrum-Half)

The heartbeat of French rugby, Dupont combines lightning quick service with unmatched running threat from No. 9. Even after injury setbacks, he remains the gold standard for modern scrum-halves.

10. Finn Russell (Scotland — Fly-Half)

Russell continues to redefine playmaking at fly-half—pulling the strings with vision, audacious kicks, and pinpoint passing. His composure under pressure has made him one of the most feared playmakers in the game.

11. Damien Penaud (France — Wing)

Penaud is a finisher supreme, with a try-scoring record that rivals anyone in the world game. Blessed with pace, footwork, and instincts, he can turn half-chances into match-winners.

12. Tommaso Menoncello (Italy — Inside Centre)

Italy’s rising star has the power to break the gain line and the finesse to release his outside backs. His emergence has been a major factor in Italy’s growing competitiveness on the international stage.

13. Jordie Barrett (New Zealand — Centre)

Tall, skilful, and physically imposing, Barrett offers stability in defence and creativity in attack. His kicking game and vision add an extra dimension to the midfield.

14. Cheslin Kolbe (South Africa — Wing)

Still one of the most electrifying players in rugby, Kolbe’s footwork and acceleration can dismantle any defensive line. A proven match-winner in the biggest games.

15. Tom Wright (Australia — Fullback)

Australia’s dependable fullback brings a sharp counter-attacking game and safe hands under the high ball. His positional play and attacking awareness make him a key figure in the Wallabies backline.