Hibbard Will Head to Gloucester

It has today been announced that Ospreys, Wales and British Lions hooker Richard Hibbard will join Gloucester next season.

The West Country side are stamping down a statement of intent for next season as the signing of the Welsh hooker follows the addition of All Black World Cup-winning prop John Afoa to the Cherry and White ranks.

Having made his international debut back in 2006 against Argentina, the 30 year old has only recently established himself as a force to be reckoned with on the international stage. 

He played four times in this year's RBS Six Nations and featured in all three of the Lions tests this summer in Australia. 

The Osprey joins a long line of Welsh Exiles who are now applying their trade in the Premiership or Top 14.

Gloucester director of rugby Nigel Davies believes Hibbard's signing is another significant move for the club.

"As with the recent confirmation of John Afoa's signing, Richard agreeing to join Gloucester Rugby next season is fantastic news. Balancing the squad, and adding depth in key areas has been a key objective for us, and this news is another part of that process," Davies told the club's official website.

"It shows where we're heading as a club. We're building a team armed not just with power up front, but also the ability behind the scrum to play a rounded and complete game.

"Richard is arguably one of the top hookers in world rugby. Clubs all around the world have been interested in signing him, so it's significant that we've been able to convince him that Gloucester is the right place for him to play his rugby.

"And, once again, it's a testimony to the hard work and commitment of everyone at the club. We're able to invest significantly in our team thanks to the backing of our board, the continued financial success of Gloucester Rugby and the significant investment made by our partners, sponsors and supporters."

Neath-born Hibbard, although sad to leave his home country, said he is ready for a new challenge.

"It was always going to be a tough decision to leave my home area, as I'm currently in my 10th successive season at the Ospreys, which is my local region and where I was born," the hooker said.

"That said, I'm absolutely delighted to be joining a rugby club such as Gloucester, based in the heart of the local community, with such a tradition and with amazing support.

"I'm a great believer in loyalty and community and I'd like to place on record formally, my great thanks to the Ospreys management, coaches, players and fans for supporting me so well throughout my career.

"I'm an Ospreys fan, and always will be. I'll just be supporting them from a distance! I wish them well in the future.

"I now look forward to this next exciting chapter in my life, and indeed that of my young family, and hope to help Gloucester Rugby return to the top of the English and British game."

© Press Association