Chris Harris has become the latest new addition for Gloucester ahead of the 2019-20 season, ramping up the competition for places.
The Scotland international is a quality addition to a back line that already boasts some stellar names with his preferred position at outside centre, although he can also play at 12 or on the wing.
His arrival from Newcastle Falcons will give head coach Johan Ackermann the chance to rotate with Mark Atkinson and Billy Twelvetrees, while Owen Williams and Henry Trinder will come back into contention when they return from long-term injuries.
Gloucester’s depth is now so strong that they could effectively field two completely different starting XVs and be extremely competitive.
Here, we take a look at two different possible lineups – one is the side that beat Harlequins 29-7 at the Twickenham Stoop in March with a nearly fully-fit squad and the other is an alternative XV.
Gloucester XV v Harlequins
15. Jason Woodward
Gloucester’s first choice full-back for much of last season.
14. Tom Marshall
Also capable of playing at full-back, the New Zealander is usually a starter when fit.
13. Billy Twelvetrees
Has made the 13 position his own under Ackermann but just as comfortable at inside centre.
12. Mark Atkinson
Enjoyed a fine season that finished with an appearance for the Barbarians.
11. Ollie Thorley
Has emerged as one of the most dangerous wingers in the Premiership.
10. Danny Cipriani
The first name on the team sheet.
9. Willi Heinz
Gloucester’s club captain.
1. Josh Hohneck
The Kiwi clocked up the minutes last season. Can move to tight-head if needed.
2. James Hanson
Australia international hooker could miss the start of next season through injury.
3. Fraser Balmain
Has established himself as first choice tight-head following departure of John Afoa.
4. Ed Slater
Has been a regular in his two seasons at Gloucester.
5. Franco Mostert
South Africa international made big impression after his late arrival last season but will miss start of next campaign due to World Cup.
6. Ruan Ackermann
Also comfortable playing at number eight.
7. Jaco Kriel
Has gone from strength to strength since his return from injury.
8. Ben Morgan
Struggled for a regular place in the previous season but got in shape and enjoyed a great season.
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Alternative Gloucester XV
15. Tom Hudson
Utility back who can also play in midfield.
14. Charlie Sharples
Gloucester’s longest serving player has been used to starting regularly but now faces tough competition.
13. Henry Trinder
Could miss the start of next season through injury and will face extra competition from Harris.
12. Chris Harris
New arrival would most likely play at 13 but adds to strength in depth in midfield.
11. Matt Banahan
Utility back can play anywhere between 11 and 15.
10. Owen Williams
Wales international also offers another option at 12. Lloyd Evans will also provide fly half back-up.
9. Joe Simpson
New signing from Wasps will expect to push Heinz for a first team place. Callum Braley also provides depth here.
1. Val Rapava Ruskin
He will hope to stay injury-free to push hard for a first team place.
2. Franco Marais
South African will hope to start the season as first choice hooker.
3. Ruan Dreyer
South Africa international will be like a new signing after injury-disrupted first season. New arrival Jamal Ford-Robinson will also push for a place.
4. Alex Craig
Scotland youth international will have a chance to step up to the first team squad.
5. Gerbrandt Grobler
He will hope to start more regularly next season.
6. Jake Polledri
Italy international will push for place in the side when he returns from the World Cup.
7. Lewis Ludlow
Once a regular in the side. Able to play across the back row.
8. Freddie Clarke
Offers versatility in the back row and could also play at lock.
Pick your strongest XV
Go through each position below and pick your strongest Gloucester XV:
