Kirill Gotovtsev signs new deal with Gloucester Rugby

Gloucester Rugby has announced that tight-head prop, Kirill Gotovtsev, has extended his stay at Kingsholm.

Gotovtsev joined the Cherry & Whites from Krasny Yar in 2021 and has become a dependable figure in George Skivington’s side, making 38 appearances so far.

The 35-year-old has an interesting sporting past, in his youth he was a talented freestyle wrestler, winning several national and international tournaments before switching sports completely to take up bobsleigh.

After missing out on the Sochi Winter Olympics team, he switched sports again to rugby with Krasny Yar where he has forged out a professional career.

Gotovtsev has won 12 caps internationally since his debut against Portugal in 2015, including at the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan.

Cherry & Whites’ Head Coach George Skivington praised Kirill’s mentality since arriving at Kingsholm.

“We’ve been really pleased with the way Kirill has immersed himself into the environment at the club.

“He’s worked extremely hard to develop his game and has been a key part of a solid set-piece. We’re pleased that he’ll continue with us next season.”