Fred Davies rejoins Bristol Bears as cover for Gabriel Oghre

Bristol Bears have brought hooker Fred Davies back to the club on a short-term loan from Doncaster Knights after Gabriel Oghre was ruled out for the rest of the 2025/26 season with a knee injury.

Fred Davies Returns To Bristol Bears

Davies has rejoined Bristol Bears until the end of the season and will link up with the squad immediately. The move gives the Bears extra cover at hooker during the final phase of the campaign.

The 26-year-old previously spent two seasons with Bristol between 2022 and 2024, making 14 appearances for the club. His familiarity with the squad and playing system is expected to help him settle quickly.

Gabriel Oghre Ruled Out With Knee Injury

England international Oghre sustained the knee injury during Bristol’s victory over Newcastle Red Bulls. The club confirmed that he will undergo surgery in the coming days and will miss the remainder of the season.

His absence is a major setback for Bristol, who have already dealt with several injury problems across the squad this season.

Pat Lam Confirms Hooker Cover

Director of Rugby Pat Lam said Bristol needed additional hooker cover alongside Harry Thacker and academy player Tomas Gwilliam following Oghre’s injury.

“Following the season-ending injury to Gabriel Oghre against Newcastle Red Bulls, we needed some cover at hooker alongside Harry Thacker and Academy player Tomas Gwilliam," said Lam.

“Fred is a player who knows our game and our environment and will be able to slot seamlessly back into the squad and we’re grateful to Ian McGeechan and Doncaster for facilitating the move.

“Losing Gabe for the rest of the season is another huge blow during a season of significant injury setbacks across our squad, but as we’ve said throughout, it’s now an opportunity for the next guy to step up and make their mark during the business end of the season.”