Gloucester announce 'exciting' new deal with Shimizu Koto Blue Sharks

Gloucester have become the latest Gallagher PREM club to announce a new multi-year international development partnership – joining forces with Japanese outfit Shimizu Koto Blue Sharks.

The collaboration will initially see six Blue Sharks players and five members of staff join the Cherry & Whites this summer for a month-long placement as part of the club’s pre-season programme at Kingsholm.

Working alongside Gloucester first-team and academy players and staff, the visiting group will gain hands-on experience across key performance areas including rugby operations, medical services and strength & conditioning.

The programme will also provide an opportunity for both clubs to share knowledge, best practice and ideas, strengthening links between the two organisations.

Shimizu Koto Blue Sharks, who have former Gloucester fly-half Billy Burns on their playing staff, reached the Division 2 final and are competing in the promotion play-offs for a place in Japan Rugby League One’s top division.

In March 2018, Harlequins unveiled a strategic partnership with three-time Rugby World Cup winners New Zealand with a view to cooperating with the All Blacks on several projects, including an exchange of playing and coaching resources.

In January 2025, Leicester Tigers entered into a Performance Partnership with another Japanese club, Mitsubishi Sagamihara Dynaboars, which has seen Lewis Chessum and Charlie Titcombe move to Japan on loan, and tighthead Tomoaki Ishii train at Welford Road.

Gloucester Chief Executive Alex Brown believes the partnership will benefit both clubs on and off the field over the next few years: “We are delighted to be working with Shimizu Koto Blue Sharks following their impressive season.

“This partnership is an exciting opportunity to unite two ambitious organisations, where players and staff can learn from one another, share ideas, and build a long-term relationship that drives development and delivers benefits both on and off the field.

“We look forward to welcoming the Blue Sharks to Kingsholm each year and to seeing this collaboration grow in the seasons ahead,” said Brown.