Stewart to re-join Glasgow Warriors

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - SEPTEMBER 03: Grant Stewart in action for Glasgow Warriors during a pre-season challenge match between Glasgow Warriors and Newcastle Falcons at Scotstoun Stadium, on September 03, 2021, in Glasgow, Scotland (Photo by Ross MacDonald / SNS Group)

The 29-year-old returns to the club from FOSROC Super Series side Ayrshire Bulls, having been training with Franco Smith’s squad at Scotstoun throughout the 2023/24 campaign to date.

A product of Strathaven RFC, the Carluke-born hooker made his professional debut away to Leinster in the 2016/17 Investec Champions Cup, going on to make 48 appearances across a five-year spell with the Warriors.

Stewart crossed for nine tries in those 48 appearances, most memorably scoring in the 2019 Guinness PRO14 Final at Celtic Park in front of over 47,000 spectators.

His form in a Glasgow shirt saw him called up to the senior Scotland squad for the first time ahead of the 2019 Guinness Six Nations, having previously represented his country at U17, U18, U19 and Club XV level.

He made his senior international debut at Scottish Gas Murrayfield in August 2019, coming off the bench against France in a Rugby World Cup warm-up Test at the home of Scottish rugby.

Stewart initially joined Connacht on a six-month contract in the 2022/23 season following his departure from Scotstoun, before linking up with Ayrshire Bulls and scoring eight tries in 13 appearances for the Millbrae outfit.

“I’m really excited to be back,” Stewart told glasgowwarriors.org.

“I’ve really enjoyed being back in the environment over the course of the season. There’s a great feeling about the place and I’ve loved being back involved.

“I’m obviously not one of the young bucks anymore, I’m one of the older boys! I definitely feel like I’ve picked up more experience from the time I’ve been away, though, and I’m looking forward to pulling on a Glasgow shirt once more.

“The coaching group here have been great, too. Franco backs the boys really well and trusts you to perform, and I can’t wait to get back out there with the boys.”

Head Coach Smith added: “Grant has made the most of being invited back into our environment, and has worked hard and given everything to become a Glasgow Warrior once again.

“He has committed to training with us alongside his commitments on his family farm and with Ayrshire Bulls, and he fully deserves his chance based on the work he has put in.

“He is a reminder to all to not give up on your dreams and that by working hard and putting in the effort you can achieve your desired goals.”