Leicester Tigers confirm six new signings including three Handre Pollard replacements
Prior to the 2025–2026 season, the Leicester Tigers have announced six new additions, including James O’Connor, a
former Wallabies fly-half.
After the season ended, the Premiership finalists announced 14 departures, including Josh Bassett, Springbok
Handre Pollard, Argentine Julian Montoya, and playmaker Jamie Shillcock.
Along with former England full-back Mike Brown, club icons Ben Youngs and Dan Cole also declared their
retirements.
New players for Leicester
Leicester has announced numerous fresh hires to make up for the departures, expanding the alternatives available to
new head coach Geoff Parling.
O’Connor, a former Wallabies playmaker, has officially joined the team after winning Super Rugby Pacific with the
Crusaders, confirming the long-rumored signing.
When I was making decisions about my future, Geoff phoned me a few weeks ago, and it felt natural. We seem to
have similar perspectives on the game, based on my experience playing under Geoff in the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
Regarding the playing component, I’m simply ecstatic to step onto the pitch and lend a hand however I can. This
year’s Final is enough evidence that the Tigers are a good team. I’ve been watching closely from a distance, and I
can’t wait to contribute in any way I can to the team’s development.
“For me coming in, it’s not so much about what I’ll be doing, more so how can I be the most useful team man to help
us go one better. Whether that’s on the training pitch, creating game plans off it or if I’m given the keys to steer the
ship. Whatever my role lands on, I’m just excited for the new experience!”
Orlando Bailey and Billy Searle, who joined from Premiership rivals Bath and Agen, respectively, will provide more
depth in the fly-half position.
Gabriel Hamer-Webb, meanwhile, will join the Tigers after an outstanding 24/25 season for Cardiff, which includes
12 tries across all competitions.
James Thompson, a forward for Counties Manukau, and John Stewart, a hooker for Bath, both joined for Leicester.
O’Connor went on to say, “I feel like it’s a full circle moment,” in reference to the return to the Premiership. Over the
past six years, I have been improving as a fly-half and have learnt a lot, both in Australia and this year with the
Crusaders.
“So, now I’m at a place where I want to test myself, step up and deliver on the big stage. I’ve played for two teams in
the Premiership, but I never felt I played my best footy, due to injury, life choices and just where I was at as a man.
So, this move is to rectify this.
Leicester Tigers signings ahead of the 2025/26 season
Tarek Haffar (Northampton Saints)
Jamie Blamire (Newcastle Falcons)
John Stewart (Bath)
James Thompson (Counties Manukau)
Joaquin Moro (Pampas XV)
James O’Connor (Crusaders)
Billy Searle (Agen)
Gabriel Hamer-Webb (Cardiff)
Orland Bailey (Bath)
Read more news on https://www.sportupdates.co.uk/
Leave a Reply