James Venter joins Gloucester

Gloucester Rugby is pleased to reveal that South African loose forward, James Venter, has signed a deal at Kingsholm ahead of the 2025/26 season.

The 28-year-old rose through the ranks at the Lions in Johannesburg, playing for the Golden Lions XV in the Rugby Challenge and the Golden Lions in the Currie Cup. He also made two Super Rugby appearances for the Lions provincial side.

Venter switched the Lions for the Sharks in 2020, where he has played for the last five seasons, amassing 32 Currie Cup appearances and 46 appearances across Super Rugby, the United Rugby Championship and the two European cup competitions.

The powerful loose forward memorably scored a try in the Sharks’ defeat to the British & Irish Lions on the 2021 tour of South Africa.

A quarter-finalist of the URC in 2021/22 & 2022/23 and the Champions Cup in 2022/23, Venter lifted silverware last season as the Sharks defeated the Cherry & Whites in the final of the Challenge Cup in Tottenham.

Director of Rugby, George Skivington, added:

“James will be a really welcome addition here at Kingsholm, and we’re delighted to get the deal over the line.

“He’ll bring energy and power in attack and defence, and I know they’re things that will excite the crowd and get them off their seats.

“He’s another quality addition to our squad for next season and we’re really excited for his arrival.”

Venter added:

“I’m pleased to have signed for Gloucester Rugby next season. I was really impressed by the vision the Club has for the future, and I’m looking forward to playing my part in that.

“I've heard amazing things about Kingsholm and the incredible support from the fans. That played a huge role in my decision to move to England. I can't wait to experience it all firsthand!"