Glasgow tap into Super Rugby talent exodus with utility back signing

Glasgow Warriors have bolstered their back-line options ahead of the 2026/27 campaign, after utility back Bayley Kuenzle put pen to paper on a two-year deal with Franco Smith’s squad.

The 27-year-old former Junior Wallaby will make the move to Scotstoun this summer subject to visa, following the conclusion of his contract with Western Force in Super Rugby Pacific.

A proven performer in Super Rugby, Kuenzle has made 44 appearances to date for the Force, including starts on the wing and at centre and covering full-back and fly-half.

He featured for the men in blue against the British & Irish Lions at Optus Stadium last summer, coming off the bench for the final quarter against a side featuring future team-mates Sione Tuipulotu and Scott Cummings.

Prior to his move to Perth, he was a fixture in the Brumbies backline between 2019 and 2021, scoring 38 points in his 20 outings for the Canberra-based franchise.

A breakout 2024 Super Rugby campaign saw the Burraneer product finish as the runner-up in the Nathan Sharpe Medal, presented annually to the player adjudged to be the top performer in Western Force colours.

He was called into the senior Australia squad ahead of the 2024 summer Tests, having previously represented Australia A in a two-match series against Japan XV in October 2022 in addition to his previous selections for Australia U20.

“I’m hugely excited,” Kuenzle told the club’s website.

“It’s a massive opportunity for me, and Glasgow is a club that’s been successful which speak volumes on the culture. I’m really looking forward to getting over there, meeting the group, and getting stuck in.

“A big part of the move was the style of rugby that Glasgow play and the culture around the club. They play an exciting brand of rugby, and you can see how tight the group is. It feels like a place where you can grow as a player and be part of something special.

“I had some really good conversations with the coaching staff, including Franco, and a couple of players as well. Everyone was really positive about the environment and the direction the club is heading in. Those chats definitely gave me a lot of confidence that it was the right move.

“I like to think I’m a hard-working player who brings an attacking mindset. I pride myself on doing the basics well, being consistent, and competing in every moment. I’ll look to bring versatility to the squad, a team-first mindset, and hopefully make a positive impact wherever I’m needed.

“To the Warrior Nation, I’m really excited to represent the club and play in front of you all. I’ll give everything I’ve got every time I pull on the jersey, and I can’t wait to experience the atmosphere and be part of the Glasgow family.”

Head Coach Smith welcomed the news, saying: “Bayley is a player that we believe will add to our environment, both on and off the field.

“His versatility will be a real asset to our squad, and he has shown his quality with and without the ball irrespective of the number on his jersey.

“We know how excited he is to become a Glasgow Warrior, and we look forward to working with him next season.”