Saracens have today confirmed the signing of Gloucester prop Fraser Balmain on a one-year-deal.
The experienced prop moved to Kingsholm ahead of the 2017/2018 season, and made 112 appearances in Cherry and White.
Commenting on the move to Saracens, Balmain said: “I’m really looking forward to joining Saracens, and am very excited for a new challenge!”
Saracens Director of Rugby, Mark McCall, added: “Fraser is a player with plenty of experience and we are excited to see him add his quality to the squad for next season.”
“He is very well respected across the league and we believe he can have a very strong impact here at Saracens.”
READ MORE: Gloucester swoop for former Northampton Saints prop Alfie Petch
Balmain initially made his Premiership debut for Leicester Tigers in 2011, and made 96 appearances for the club. He also lifted a Premiership title with the Tigers in 2013.
He also appeared in a non-capped test match for England against the Barbarians back in 2014.
Gloucester Director of Rugby, George Skivington, also commented on the departure of Balmain.
“Fraser has played a big role for us in his time here and we are grateful to his contribution in Cherry & White.
“We do, however, recognise it’s a good opportunity and a new challenge for him at this stage in his career, and he departs with our best wishes and thanks for his time at Kingsholm.”
Whilst losing Balmain is a blow to Gloucester’s pack, they have already signed his replacement in the form of Alfie Petch.
The former Exeter Chiefs and Northampton Saints tighthead moves to Kingsholm following a spell with ProD2 side Biarritz.
Petch has represented England throughout the age-grades, and also spent time on loan at the Cornish Pirates in the Championship.
