Gloucester-Hartpury power up for challenge to break top four
THERE has been some interesting player movements in the Premiership during the offseason.
As we know, the Women’s World Cup is in October in New Zealand so international players won’t be back on the club scene until late November.
The start of the season will begin with a cup competition for the clubs, whilst internationals are away on duty. The inclusion of the cup is vital to develop young players as well as getting the rest of the team game ready for the start of the league.
Some of the big headline movements have been drawn to Gloucester. Something very special is brewing in the west country with the likes of Maud Muir, Alex Matthews, Sam Monaghan, Sarah Beckett, Laura Delgado and Siwan Lillicrap all signing for the Cherry and Whites. These signings are a statement of intent from head of performance Sean Lynn, of how they want to play next season. They have signed some huge ball carriers that that will give the backs fantastic front foot ball to play from.
Other signings have seen Exeter recruit Wasps trio Claudia MacDonald, Cliodhna Moloney, Edel McMahon, Lori Cramer and Jodie Ounsley to strengthen their side.
Other big signings include Red Roses duo Jess Breech and Leanne Infante, alongside Scotland’s Abi Evans and Louise McMillan. Sale Sharks have seen an influx of eight players including USA internationals Alycia Washington, Carly Waters and Italian star Sara Tounesi.
Australian international Emily Chancellor has joined the Harlequins ranks alongside speedster Ellie Boatman.
What’s apparent is that the Premiership is a hotbed of talent with homegrown and international stars flocking to play in the league. I believe this season is going to be the most competitive season yet, with more of an abundance of top players throughout the league. I’m very keen to watch how Gloucester do this season, given their strong signings spree. I think reaching the semifinals will be highly contested with at least six to eight teams vying for a top four spot.