Rapid Wales fly-half/fullback Gareth Anscombe will join Tokyo Suntory Sungoliath following this year’s World Cup in France.
The former Ospreys player was released from the club at the end of last season, alongside many others amidst the Welsh rugby financial crisis.
His journey to Japan will see him competing with former Welsh teammate, Cory Hill, as well as former Scarlets player Liam Williams who has joined up with rivals Kubota Spears.
Speaking about his signing with the Japanese side, Anscombe said: “It is a great honour coming to play for a team like Sungoliath, I can’t wait to get over to Japan and play in front of the fans and experience the Japanese lifestyle and culture.
“I look forward to joining the team later in the year and getting stuck in with the boys.”
The 32-year-old is in Warren Gatland’s plans as Wales look to turn their fortunes around in the world’s greatest rugby competition in September.
Since making his debut in 2015, Anscombe has had mixed fortunes in the national side. A particular highlight was his Man of the Match performance in the Grand Slam winning victory over Ireland back in 2019 when he scored 20 of Wales’ points.
Many believe his immense talent has been deserving of more Welsh caps, however thanks to an unfortunate injury his 2019 World Cup dreams became just that.
After an extremely impressive performance in the recent Barbarians vs World XV exhibition match, it’s clear that Anscombe, if selected, will be a key player for a Welsh side desperately searching for a spark.
Sign In