**Gareth Anscombe Responds to Bayonne’s Call While Wales Prepare for Japanese Challenge**
In a dramatic shift in the rugby landscape, Gareth Anscombe, the versatile Wales fly-half, is set to embark on a new chapter in his career after confirming a move to French club Bayonne. This follows the conclusion of his one-year tenure with Gloucester in the English Premiership, during which he made notable contributions but was ultimately informed his contract would not be renewed. The sudden departure of long-serving French playmaker Camille Lopez prompted Bayonne to seek an experienced replacement, and Anscombe was swiftly approached.
Speaking candidly about the rapid developments, Anscombe admitted, “I have to say it all happened rather quickly. I knew Gloucester weren’t keeping me on, so I was open to new opportunities.” The Wales international explained that Bayonne’s need arose unexpectedly due to Lopez’s recent retirement announcement, leaving them to secure a seasoned number 10. “That’s where I fitted in,” he remarked.
Bayonne, currently pushing for silverware in the Top 14, represents both a challenge and a fresh environment for the 34-year-old. Anscombe expressed enthusiasm for joining a squad boasting a formidable back line, looking forward to testing himself in one of Europe’s most competitive leagues. “In my opinion, the Top 14 is the benchmark for quality rugby now. The crowds and atmosphere in France are also something unique,” he added, recognising both the professional and personal growth this move could bring.
Off the pitch, Anscombe has been meticulous in preparing for the transition to French life. The prospect of his daughter attending school abroad is particularly exciting for the family. He noted, “Bayonne seems like an idyllic place, close to cities such as Biarritz and San Sebastian. It should be a fantastic experience—not just for me, but for my whole family.” He credits former Wales team-mates Dan Biggar and George North, both of whom relished their stints in French rugby, for providing invaluable advice on relocation.
This isn’t the first time French clubs have shown an interest in Anscombe. He previously declined an offer in 2023 to serve as a medical joker, a role that would have seen him miss the Rugby World Cup with Wales. Reflecting on that decision, he said, “Missing the 2019 World Cup through injury was tough, so when the chance came again in 2023, I couldn’t walk away from the Wales shirt. Now, the timing feels right for something new.”
As Anscombe prepares for his Top 14 challenge, Wales’ national side is gearing up for a stern test of their own. Their summer tour to Japan is being keenly anticipated. Japan’s head coach, Eddie Jones, has laid down a clear warning: his team plan to exploit home conditions, particularly the heat and humidity, aiming to “run Wales off their feet” in their consecutive Test matches next month.
Interim Wales coach Matt Sherratt faces the major task of reversing a bleak record, with the team currently enduring a 17-game losing streak. Despite only Tomos Williams and Jac Morgan being unavailable due to British & Irish Lions duty, Jones believes the full-strength visitors could struggle in the steamy Japanese climate. He commented, “Seventeen losses damages confidence. Normally we’d expect more players missing to the Lions, but Wales are nearly at their strongest. We’ll look to make it a fast-paced contest and use the weather to our advantage.”
In other major rugby news, reforms have been announced for the 2026 Guinness Women’s Six Nations tournament. Organisers have adopted a ‘Super Saturday’ approach, staging all matches in a round on the same day to boost the fan experience and amplify audience reach globally. The championship will commence on Saturday, 11 April 2026, with England starting their defence against Ireland at Twickenham. The competition concludes on 17 May with a potential title decider between England and France in France.
Tournament organisers highlighted that the revised schedule is designed to optimise both in-person and broadcast experiences, tapping into swelling global interest—especially following the 2025 Rugby World Cup hosted in England.
As UK rugby continues to evolve at both club and international levels, Anscombe’s French adventure and Wales’ summer tour, combined with the ongoing development of the women’s game, underline the fast-changing, international scope of modern rugby. Both challenges and opportunities abound, promising fresh narratives for players and supporters alike.