Ruan Ackermann. Photo by Geoff Caddick/AFP
England-qualified Ackermann extends Gloucester stay!
Former SA A and Lions star Ruan Ackermann is one of four players who have signed new multi-year contracts at English club Gloucester.
Ruan Ackermann. Photo by Geoff Caddick/AFP
Ackermann has been at Gloucester since 2017 and has already become eligible for England selection on residency grounds.
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It appears increasingly certain that his allegiance is now towards earning selection for England rather than the Springboks, who is father Johan played for in 13 Tests.
“Ruan Ackermann puts his body on the line every game and it’s great for the future of the club that the ferocious back rower has stayed here at Kingsholm,” a statement from Gloucester read. “With the ball carrying ability to put us on the front foot, Ackermann is a key member of the squad.”
Earlier this year, Ackermann said he was increasingly excited by the prospect of perhaps earning a call-up to the England side.
“I have not had any interest from South Africa in the last 18 months,” Ackermann told The Guardian. “England have grown since last year’s World Cup and the prospect of playing for them has excited me.
“I had discussions with Eddie Jones before the first lockdown, but it was nothing massive. He told me what I should work on and what he liked about me. There has been nothing since then and I just need to play to the best of my ability, making sure that I am ready if it ever happens and take it with both hands.”
Ackermann among four players to sign new Gloucester deals
Matias Alemanno, Val Rapava-Ruskin and Giorgi Kveseladze are the other players who have signed new contracts to stay at Kingsholm.
“These four lads are exactly what we’re about here at Gloucester Rugby,” coach George Skivington commented. “They all put their bodies on the line every time they put on the shirt so I’m pleased to have them all around for the future.
“It’s an exciting time for the club and it’s great to see that players of their quality and ability have brought into what we’re doing here and that they want to stay.”
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