Veteran Kirill Gotovtsev to continue playing beyond 38

Experienced tighthead prop Kirill Gotovtsev has put pen to paper on a fresh deal at Kingsholm this week, committing his services to Gloucester Rugby for his fifth season.

Gotovtsev, who was born just after the inaugural Rugby World Cup,  is only two months younger than Leicester legend Dan Cole, who has announced he could be retiring from playing at the end of the season.

While England centurion Cole has decided he’s spent enough time at the coal face, Gotovtsev will plough on beyond his 38th birthday in July.

After arriving in Gloucester from Krasny Yar ahead of the 2021/22 season, Gotovtsev has gone on to pull on the Cherry & White jersey 82 times, including 20 appearances this season. Last season, Gotovtsev was named Coaches’ Player of the Season.

“Kirill is one of the nicest blokes you’ll meet, he’s extremely humble but very dedicated to his craft and performing at the top level,” commented Director of Rugby, George Skivington.

“He’s the oldest member of the squad, but he’s one of the fittest, and that’s testament to how hard he works and how well he looks after himself. There aren’t many other 37-year-olds doing 80-minute shifts in the Gallagher Premiership!

“We’re delighted that Kirill has committed his future to the Club.”

Gotovtsev added: “I have loved every minute of my time at Kingsholm, and I am really happy to be staying here.

“Gloucester has become my home and I’m very grateful to the coaches, the players and the fans for how they’ve embraced me and my family since my move to England.

“I’m looking forward to ending the season on a high against Northampton Saints on Saturday, and I’m already getting.”