SCOTLAND international Richie Gray has completed his move from Castres to Toulouse, signing a four-year deal with the former European champions. The transfer was originally revealed last November, and finally formalised this afternoon when Toulouse announced it on their website.
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The 26-year-old, who has 46 Scotland caps, joined Castres three years ago after a single season with Sale. The move to England followed a four-year spell in which he made his name with Glasgow Warriors.
“This was a very difficult decision to make,” Gray said when his departure from Castres was first announced. “I have loved my time in Castres. The club and the supporters have made my time here very special and I will leave with very fond memories.
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“However, the opportunity to play for one of Europe’s most successful clubs, steeped in history, is an incredible one for me. When I met with the club [Toulouse] they described their ambition and I felt this was the right move for me, to challenge myself in what is a very strong squad.”
With three rounds of the Top 14 to play, Toulouse lie fifth in the table, two places and eight points ahead of Castres.
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Meanwhile, another former Warrior, James Downey, has announced his retirement at the age of 35. The Irish centre played seven times for Glasgow last season before moving to Wasps. He won one cap for his country.
Andries Strauss, the South African centre, has also announced his retirement after being released by Edinburgh. The 32-year-old joined the capital club two years ago.
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