Franco Mostert joins Gloucester Rugby ahead of the 2018-19 season

Gloucester Rugby have confirmed the signing of South African international lock Franco Mostert from the Lions.

The Springbok second row arrives after playing a key part in the Lions’ march to the 2017 Super Rugby final, and was last week named in the South African squad for the summer test series with England.

“Franco has proved to be one of the stars of Super Rugby, and we are delighted that he will be playing in Cherry and White next season," said Director of Rugby David Humphreys.

“Obviously Franco is a player that Johan is very familiar with, and Franco will know what Johan expects from his players, and he is the type of character that will fit in well to our squad...

“With the squad looking forward to the challenges of Champions Cup rugby this coming season, we need quality throughout our squad as at times it will be tested, and Franco adds to our second-row stocks, in an area of real strength and depth.”

In the current Super Rugby campaign, Mostert has been an ever-present for the Johannesburg based outfit, displaying his leadership skills in captaining the side, and his versatility operating at both flanker and in the more familiar second row.

A player whose signature has been highly sought-after across Europe, the 27-year-old second row was keen to renew his relationship with Johan Ackermann and will be reunited with his former Coach in Cherry and White this summer.