Richie Gray, a towering lock with exceptional talent, returned to his first professional club, Glasgow Warriors, in the summer of 2020. Gray's rugby journey has been marked by impressive performances and significant achievements.
Making his debut for Glasgow Warriors in the 2008/09 season against Ulster, Gray quickly established himself as a formidable presence in the second-row. Standing at 6'10", he captured attention with his performances at both domestic and European levels. During his first spell with the Warriors, Gray made 47 appearances and scored a memorable match-winning try in injury time against Bath at Firhill.
Gray's outstanding performances led to his inclusion in the PRO12 Dream Team for the 2010/11 season. After the 2011/12 campaign, he made a move to Sale Sharks in England. Following a single season with Sale, Gray ventured to France, spending three seasons with Castres before joining Toulouse for a four-year spell that included winning the Top14 title.
Representing Scotland alongside his younger brother Jonny, Gray has been part of the 21st set of brothers to play together for the national team. His international debut came against France in 2010, and he went on to earn 50 caps for Scotland, reaching a milestone during the 2015 Rugby World Cup clash with South Africa.
Gray holds the distinction of being the most recent Scottish player to earn a Test cap for the British and Irish Lions. He made a crucial appearance off the bench in the decisive third Test victory over Australia in 2013. Additionally, Gray has represented Scotland at various age levels, including captaining the U20 side.
Starting his rugby career with Glasgow Hawks and Stirling County, Gray signed his first professional contract with the Glasgow Warriors in 2008. After his successful tenure with Glasgow, he joined Sale Sharks and later embarked on his French adventure with Castres and Toulouse.
Gray's contributions to Scottish rugby have been widely recognized, earning him numerous international caps and praise as one of Europe's best second rows. Despite some setbacks, including injury concerns, Gray's talent, height, and skill set have solidified his reputation as an exceptional lock.
Ahead of the Rugby World Cup 2023, Gray has been named in the squad for Scotland.
KG(07/06/2023)
Career
Toyota Verblitz No 4 Lock |
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Sale Sharks No 4 Lock |
2012 - 2013 | |
British & Irish Lions No 4 Lock |
2013 - 2013 | |
Castres Olympique No 4 Lock |
2013 - 2016 | |
Toulouse No 5 Lock |
2016 - 2019 | |
Kelvinside Academy No 5 Lock |
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Glasgow Hawks RFC No 5 Lock |
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Stirling County RFC No 5 Lock |
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Scotland No 4 Lock |
2010 - 2024 | |
Glasgow Warriors No 4 Lock |
2008 - 2024 |