Gloucester Rugby have reportedly secured the contract extension of Will Joseph after excelling for the cherry and whites since arriving from Harlequins.
The report, from the online publication RUCK, states that “the 24-year-old has agreed to an extension that will keep him at Kingsholm for the foreseeable future.”
The 24-year-old has been in fine form this season, scoring two tries in the opening three matches of the Gallagher Prem, and has shown great versatility across the backline from both wing and centre.
His opening season in the West Country saw him beat 34 defenders from 74 carries and was rewarded with seven tries. Although the younger brother of former England star Jonathan Joseph has failed to add to his initial England senior cap earned in 2022, his excellent form could well see him forced into contention ahead of the 2027 World Cup.
Canadian international joins Newcastle
Newcastle Red Bulls have secured the signature of Canadian back-five forward Mason Flesch until the end of the season.
The 6-foot-5 Ontarian has been capped by his country 26 times and was also named as Major League Rugby’s ‘Forward of the Season’ for 2026 after scoring ten tries in 11 games for Chicago Hounds, including one in the final as they defeated California Legion to lift the league title.
He made his professional breakthrough with Toronto Arrows in 2021 before making his debut for Canada later that year against the USA.
Newcastle head coach Dan McFarland said: “Mason has been a stand-out performer in Major League Rugby and for his country, and deserves this opportunity.
“He is a great athlete who will add depth to a very competitive area of our squad, and I look forward to working with him in our environment.”
Flesch added: “I’m incredibly excited to be a part of this team. I’m looking forward to being involved with a quality full-time organisation, and most importantly very eager to train and help push standards.”
Former New Zealand international retires
Former All Black Liam Coltman has retired after 17 seasons as a professional rugby player, announcing his decision via social media.
“After 17 incredible seasons playing rugby for my job, it is time to hang up the boots,” he said.
“The teams I have been in have done some amazing things, those memories, and the mates I’ve made them with are the best parts of rugby. It’s always been an honour and a privilege.
“Many people to thank for their support over the years – grateful to you all for helping me live my dream.
“Looking forward to spending more time with my family and friends, having time to get out in the great outdoors and learning something new by starting up on the tools next year.”
The 36-year-old played his final game in the NPC semi-final loss with Otago against Northland. The now-retired hooker played over 100 matches for both Otago and the Highlanders after making his debut with the New Zealand franchise in 2013.
Stints in the Top 14 with Lyon, in America with Utah and the Canon Eagles in Japan would follow, before returning to Otago to finish his career with six substitute appearances. He signs off his esteemed career having worn the All Blacks jersey eight times between 2016 and 2019, also playing in the 2019 World Cup in Japan.
Benhard Janse van Rensburg commits to Bear country
England international Benhard Janse van Rensburg has committed his future to Bristol Bears, signing a new undisclosed contract with the club.
Since arriving at Bristol, the South African-born star has established himself as one of the premier midfields in the Prem, and even been rewarded with a call-up to the England national side.
Director of Rugby Pat Lam said: “I’m absolutely delighted BV has extended his time at Bristol as he is genuinely one of the best players I have had the privilege to coach.
“The reason everyone marvels at his consistency of performance week in and out, is all down to his incredible attitude and desire to represent his family with pride and not let his team down. He’s extremely coachable and the high standards he sets for himself, both in training and on matchdays, is why he’s one of the most respected players in the team.
“BV has become a hugely important part of our team here at Bristol, and we’re excited to see him continue to grow and take his game to another level of performance.”
Janse van Rensburg said: “I’m really happy to be staying at Bristol. I’ve loved my time here so far and it was an easy decision to commit my future to the club.
“We’ve got a great group of players, coaches and staff, and I genuinely believe in what we’re trying to achieve together. There’s a lot of ambition within this squad and I want to be part of taking this club forward.
“I’ve really enjoyed the way we play rugby here. It suits my game, gives me the freedom to express myself and challenges me to keep improving.
“The supporters have been brilliant to me and my family since we arrived, and I’m looking forward to making more memories in a Bears shirt and hopefully helping bring success to Bristol.”