Billy Twelvetrees returns as Player-Coach for Worcester Warriors

Worcester Warriors have confirmed the signing of former England centre Billy Twelvetrees, who comes out of retirement to take on a player-coach role ahead of the club’s return to professional rugby.

The 36-year-old’s addition is seen as a major statement by the Warriors, who are rebuilding after a two-and-a-half-year hiatus following administration.

Twelvetrees, who earned 22 caps for England and played one match for the British and Irish Lions in 2013, had stepped away from playing last year to begin coaching at Championship side Hartpury.

Now, in a surprising twist, he will return to active duty—both on the pitch and in the coaching box—as part of the Warriors’ ambitious comeback plan.

“Joining Worcester Warriors as a player-coach is a fantastic opportunity,” said Twelvetrees.

“I'm excited to be contributing both on and off the field, helping to develop talent and bring real energy to the squad. It's a challenge I'm ready for and I can't wait to get started.”

A veteran of 17 professional seasons, Twelvetrees began his career with Bedford Blues before rising through the ranks at Leicester Tigers, where he clinched a Premiership title in his first season in 2009.

He later moved to Gloucester in 2012, going on to make 273 appearances over 11 seasons, earning a reputation as one of the Premiership's most dependable and intelligent backs.

The move reunites him with Matt Everard, newly appointed head coach of Worcester Warriors and a former Leicester teammate.

“Billy is one of those special people that after spending just a short amount of time with, you will never forget,” said Everard.

“Kind, incredibly hard-working and always has such a positive impact on people.”

Twelvetrees joins a revitalized squad featuring a number of high-profile signings including Uruguay international Juan Gonzalez, Leicester Tigers prop Tim Hoyt, Exeter’s Billy Keast, and Cornish Pirates full-back Will Trewin.

The Warriors have also secured the services of club legend Matt Kvesic, experienced scrum-half Lloyd Williams, Saracens prop Fraser Balmain, and Dragons fly-half Will Reed.