The rumor had been circulating for a few days, it is now confirmed. According to our information, Bristol pillar Kyle Sinckler (30 years old, 68 caps) and Northampton third row Lewis Ludlam (27 years old, 25 caps), both internationals of the XV de la Rose, will join the Top 14 and Toulon the next season.
Both players have agreed for three seasons. They will find another of their compatriots there, second-row David Ribbans, who has joined Pierre Mignoni’s troops this season.
This drain of talent is a big blow for the boss of the English selection, Steve Borthwick – whose new players at the pillar position are struggling to emerge – and that of the English Federation, Bill Sweeney, who hoped to keep the best players in the Premiership despite the difficulties of the Championship.
