Gloucester add to centre ranks with addition of Chris Harris

Newcastle Falcons centre Chris Harris has signed for Gloucester.

As reported by The Rugby Paper on 19 May, the Scotland international followed Falcons teammate Simon Hammersley in triggering a release clause in lieu of the club’s relegation to the Championship.

Harris will move on to Gloucester ready for next season well accustomed to life in the Premiership after making 77 appearances for the Falcons.

With the synergy between Mark Atkinson and Billy Twelvetrees adding to the fervour of Danny Cipriani‘s play, Gloucester will be blessed in midfield depth next season.

“We’re delighted that Chris has agreed to join Gloucester and to add another international calibre player to the squad, one who also possesses significant Premiership experience,” Gloucester director of rugby David Humphreys said.

“As is the case with all Premiership clubs, there are times when the squad is tested to the max due to injuries and international commitments, for example.

“Chris is a proven talent, a quality player and will add to our options in the backline.”

Meanwhile, Harris is looking forward to embracing his new challenge with a club running closest to Exeter Chiefs and Saracens in the Premiership table.

“It’s all happened very quickly to be honest,” 28-year-old Harris said.

“I’ve loved every minute of my time with the Falcons and will be forever grateful to them. However, I’m at the stage of my career where I need to be performing at the highest level of the club game.

“Watching from outside, I’ve been so impressed with what Gloucester have done over the past couple of seasons and can’t wait to link up with my team-mates and start to contribute.

“They seem to have a great team culture, and play some entertaining rugby. I’ve always enjoyed playing at Kingsholm so it promises to be an exciting new chapter.”