Springbok World Cup Winning Lock Signs For English Side

Gloucester Rugby confirmed the acquisition of Springbok World Cup-winning lock Jean Kleyn for the 2026/2027 season.

Kleyn, who spent a decade playing for Irish side Munster, will now swap Ireland for England as he brings about a new chapter in his career.

Standing at 6’8”, Kleyn has been capped 10 times by the Springboks since debuting in 2023 and came off the bench for the World Cup final in that same year.

Previous to that, Kleyn represented Ireland five times, including two games at the 2019 World Cup, having qualified on residency grounds after signing for Munster three years earlier.

Identified as a powerful and uncompromising presence in the engine room, Gloucester director of rugby George Skivington had this to say:

“Jean is a player I’ve admired for a long time. He brings real edge, experience, and a winning mentality, which will be invaluable for our group.”

“His physical presence and professionalism will raise standards across the squad, and we’re excited to welcome him to Kingsholm,” added Skivington.

The 32-year-old lock has made 160 appearances for Munster during his 10 years with the club, which included winning the United Rugby Championship in 2022-2023.

“I’m thrilled to be joining Gloucester Rugby next season,” Kleyn said.

“It’s a club with incredible history and a passionate fan base, and the vision shared with me really matched what I was looking for in the next chapter of my career.”

“I can’t wait to get started, meet the supporters, and give everything I have for this team,” he enthused. 

Kleyn is the fourth player the Cherry and Whites have secured for next season, following scrum-half Dan Robson and Welsh duo Jac Morgan and Dewi Lake.