Glasgow Warriors add Scotland winger Rowe

• 5 Jul 2023

Kyle Rowe is excited to introduce himself to the Warrior Nation, after agreeing to become the latest addition to the Glasgow Warriors squad ahead of the 2023/24 season.

The 25-year-old – who spent time in the Glasgow Warriors academy before turning professional – makes the switch to Scotstoun following two seasons with London Irish, having become a firm fan favourite during his time at the English Premiership outfit prior to their move into administration.

A scintillating 2021/22 campaign saw Rowe forge a reputation as one of the league’s most potent finishers, crossing for 10 tries in 23 appearances across all competitions.

Three of those tries came in unforgettable fashion during a 34-34 draw with Saracens, Rowe completing his hat-trick six minutes into overtime to round out a 27-point comeback by the Exiles.

The winger’s blend of sheer pace and innate game intelligence had long seen him earmarked as one to watch, having first come to prominence in the Scottish rugby community thanks to a series of impressive performances for Ayr.

He was an integral part of the Millbrae side’s famous league and cup double success in 2018/19, scoring a brace in the Tennents Premiership Final victory over Heriot’s before adding the opening try in a 26-25 win over the same opponents in the Scottish Cup Final at BT Murrayfield three weeks later.

An accomplished 7s player, Rowe represented Scotland 7s at five tournaments across the 2019/20 season.

Having previously represented Scotland at U20 level alongside future Glasgow team-mates including Stafford McDowall, Rory Darge and Ross Thompson, the winger made his senior international debut in Scotland’s victory over Argentina in Salta in July 2022.

“I’m excited to get stuck in,” Rowe told glasgowwarriors.org following the announcement.

“First of all, though, I want to wish everyone associated with London Irish all the very best with whatever they do next – I don’t think I’d be where I am today without them, because they gave me a chance to prove what I can do. I’ll be forever grateful to them.

“When Glasgow said they were interested, it all fell into place perfectly to be honest. To be able to move back home and be close to family and friends was a no-brainer. It’s a club I know well, from being in the academy and being around as World Cup cover in 2019, as well as from growing up with a lot of the boys here – it’s been a pretty seamless transition so far.

“It’s always good to see boys you know – I’ve not seen a lot of them since 2019, and a lot has happened since then! It’s like not a day’s gone when we get together, though – it’s been brilliant to come in and reconnect with them.

“I’m excited by the potential in this team, too. I watched as the guys got to the final of the Challenge Cup last year, which was such an achievement, and I believe this group has what it takes to go on, get to more finals and hopefully win titles.

“I’m ready to give everything on the pitch for this club. I’ll work as hard as anyone and I just want to get my hands on the ball, get involved and show everyone what I can do.”

Head Coach Franco Smith added: “The chance to add a player of Kyle’s quality to our squad ahead of the new season was one that we could not miss.

“He is someone who not only possesses an exciting skillset and real turn of pace, but who brings a real work ethic and desire to give his all for the team.

“We’re excited to work with him as we prepare for the new campaign and we look forward to seeing him show what he can do in a Glasgow jersey.”