Gray extends contract with Glasgow Warriors

Glasgow Warriors have secured the services of one of rugby’s most in-form second-rowers ahead of the 2023/24 season, after Richie Gray agreed to a new contract that will keep him at Scotstoun for the foreseeable future.

The 32-year-old has been a mainstay in the second-row for his hometown club since returning to Glasgow in the summer of 2020, making 95 appearances to date across both of his spells with the Warriors.

Having initially made his Glasgow Warriors debut against Ulster in the closing stages of the 2008/09 season, Gray quickly became one of the northern hemisphere’s pre-eminent second-rowers, standing out through his expertise at the lineout and with ball in hand.

His form in Glasgow colours quickly saw him make the step up to the international stage, making his senior Scotland debut against France in the 2010 Six Nations.

British and Irish Lions honours soon followed, the Rutherglen-born second-rower earning a Test cap on the 2013 tour to Australia.

After eight years away from the Warriors, Gray returned to his first professional outfit in the summer of 2020, going on to re-establish himself at the heart of the Glasgow pack once more.

His impact around Scotstoun has been felt by team-mates and coaches alike, with Gray recognised with The Malcolm Group Leadership Award at the 2021/22 Awards Dinner.

Capped 73 times by Scotland to date, the former Kelvinside Academy pupil made his return to the international arena after an 18-month absence during the 2022 Autumn Nations Series, featuring in each of Scotland’s 2023 Guinness Six Nations fixtures so far.

A near ever-present for Franco Smith’s side this season, Gray also achieved a landmark moment in January 2023, scoring in January’s victory away to Perpignan to record his first try in almost 12 years in Glasgow colours.

“The main factor for me staying is that my family is happy and I’m happy, simple as that,” Gray told glasgowwarriors.org following his re-signing.

“I can’t speak highly enough of the environment at the club, as it ensures everyone involved pushes hard to be at their best on and off the park.

“I’m really enjoying playing under Franco [Smith], too. He’s a big character and the team has bought into his philosophy of attacking rugby which suits Glasgow Warriors. He has challenged me as a player, which I believe has brought the best out of me.

“If we can continue to grow in other areas we will be able to challenge for titles, and that’s something I’m really looking forward to being a part of.”

Head Coach Franco Smith added: “Richie is someone who brings an immense amount of experience and quality to our squad.

“His expertise at the lineout is a significant asset to us on the field, whilst his dedication to driving our standards to a higher level makes him a great role model for our young players coming through.

“We enjoy working with him day in, day out, and we look forward to seeing him continue to give everything to this club.”