By Paul Jones

Gareth Anscombe has been labelled as “one of the best fly-halves in the northern hemisphere” after his move to Gloucester for next season was confirmed by the English club.

Anscombe, 32, is understood to have signed a two-year deal and will link up with the Kingsholm club this summer.

It’s a significant act of faith by the Cherry and Whites since the Wales outside-half has not played since suffering an injury in the victory over Australia at the World Cup four months ago.

Anscombe was due to play for Japanese club Suntory Sungoliath after the World Cup but suffered a groin injury that pulled the plug on the deal.

https://twitter.com/gloucesterrugby/status/1767627296259617125?s=20

He returned to Wales and after undergoing surgery, has been building up his fitness with the Wales’ Six Nations squad, although he is not officially part of the group.

Gloucester director of rugby George Skivington said: “We’re really pleased to bring a player with Gareth’s club and international experience to Kingsholm.

“He’s one of the top fly halves in the Northern Hemisphere and we feel he’ll complement our other options at fly half and full back well.

“We’re looking forward to him joining us in the summer.”

https://twitter.com/Gareth_Anscombe/status/1767652452965253533?s=20

Anscombe started his career in his native New Zealand before moving to Cardiff Blues in 2014, making his Wales debut through his Welsh mother a year later, then spending four seasons at Ospreys from 2019.

At Gloucester he will link up with Wales scrum-half Tomos Williams, who has also committed to the Cherry and Whites for next season.

Anscombe will be a replacement for Gloucester’s Scotland international Adam Hastings, who is moving back to the URC after signing for Glasgow Warriors next season.

Gareth Anscombe is a fantastic signing for @gloucesterrugby

Magnificent player who I so so wish can stay injury free. Deserves a flyer of a season

— Andy Thomas (@andy_thomas1989) March 12, 2024