Ellis Genge set to remain a key part of Steve Borthwick’s England set-up after signing a new long-term contract with hometown club Bristol Bears
- Genge has made 62 appearances for England and captained the team twice
- His decision to stay in Bristol will ensure he remains a key part of the England squad.
- Genge won the Premiership title with Leicester in 2022 and returned to Bristol
Ellis Genge looks set to end the trend of England internationals spending their final years in France, signing a new long-term contract with his hometown club Bristol.
Prop Genge has 62 Test caps to his name. He has captained his country twice and has long been vice-captain of the national team.
The 29-year-old player saw his international colleagues Owen Farrell and Kyle Sinckler opt for a lucrative move to the French top division instead of staying at home.
The moves mean Farrell and his team will now no longer be able to play Test rugby, but Genge has re-signed with Bristol to continue playing a key role in the England squad.
“This club and city mean so much to me, so I’m proud to commit my long-term future here,” Genge said. “I’ve said before that I’m just as passionate about playing for Bristol as I am about playing for England, so it was an easy decision to stay.
Ellis Genge has signed a new long-term contract to remain with his hometown club Bristol Bears
Bears director of rugby Pat Lam praised Genge’s career and expressed his excitement for what lies ahead
“I’m thrilled to be back here, close to my family in the city I’ve always called home. I’m excited about what this group of players can achieve in the years to come.”
Genge’s decision to stay home is a huge boost for club and country. Under England Rugby’s new professional playing partnership, his status as a leading international means that Genge’s playing time is monitored by the country’s head coach, Steve Borthwick. Genge is a sure-fire starter for England when he is available.
Genge won the Gallagher Premiership title with Leicester in 2022 before returning to his hometown of Bristol due to family circumstances.
While there is still a chance he could move abroad, Genge’s new deal at Bristol ensures he will remain at Ashton Gate for the next three years.
That means that, barring injury, he will remain a key player for England until the 2027 World Cup in Australia.
The 29-year-old has 62 Test caps to his name and has captained his country twice
If Genge is not injured, he will remain a key player for Steve Borthwick’s England team until the 2027 World Cup in Australia.
Bears Director of Rugby Pat Lam said: ‘Ellis has achieved many great things in his career but what excites me most about Ellis’ long-term commitment to the Bears is his hunger and desire to improve in every aspect of his game, both on and off the field.’
He is a passionate and proud Bristolian, which is clearly reflected in his leadership qualities as he encourages others to be the best they can be for the team and our community.
“We are all very pleased that Ellis is staying. He is a huge part of our team. I look forward to seeing the great things he will achieve for both club and country in the future.”