Former Cherry and Whites captain Tom Savage will make the switch to the land of Cherry Blossom at the end of the season after signing for Suntory Sungoliath.
The Gloucester lock is one of the club’s longest-serving players having made his debut in the 2011-12 season.
He was named captain at the age of 24 by coach Nigel Davies in 2013 and has gone on to rack up 200 appearances for Gloucester.
Taking the decision to embark on a new chapter of his career in Japan‘s Top League, where Kieran Read and Ryan Crotty are set to play later in the year, Savage explained the difficulty in leaving Kingsholm.
“I’m very excited to be joining Suntory Goliath after eight enjoyable years at Gloucester Rugby,” the 29-year-old said. “Having met and spoken with them I hope I can add something to what is already a successful and professional environment.
“The set up at Suntory is extremely highly regarded by everyone I have spoken to that know the club, and my wife Lauren and I are really looking forward to immersing ourselves fully in a new culture and this exciting step in my career and our lives.
“I’d like to take the opportunity to thank all the Gloucester Rugby players, staff and supporters who have made my time at the club so incredible. To have played as many times as I have, and to have had the honour to captain the team during my time over the last eight seasons has been a real privilege.
“My decision to leave was the toughest I’ve had to make to date, but I felt the chance to go and experience something new playing for Suntory Sungoliath in Japan is an opportunity that isn’t given to many.
“I’ll be giving my all as usual for the rest of the season and hope to finish my time at Gloucester on a real high. Thanks, Sav.”
Savage will join the reigning Top League champions who boast Wallabies internationals Matt Giteau and Sean McMahon among their ranks.
Gloucester director of rugby David Humphreys understood Savage’s move, but stated how he envisaged the second row staying at Kingsholm for the whole of his career.
“Sav is the sort of player and personality that every club wants in their squad. His attitude and commitment to every aspect of his training, preparation and playing cannot be faulted.
“I think he could genuinely have been a one club man. But this is a terrific opportunity, not just in a rugby sense, but also in terms of experiencing a new culture in a different country.
“I know that I speak on behalf of everyone at the club when I wish him well in this exciting new adventure.”
