Scotland's Richie Gray signs with Japan's Toyota Verblitz

Veteran Scotland international Richie Gray has signed with Japan’s Toyota Verblitz for the upcoming season, the club announced on Tuesday.

The 35-year-old lock, capped 79 times for Scotland, will leave Glasgow Warriors to join the Japanese side, marking a new chapter in his distinguished rugby career.

Gray, who has also represented the British and Irish Lions on their 2013 tour to Australia, will be playing under the guidance of former All Blacks head coaches Steve Hansen and Ian Foster at Toyota Verblitz.

The move to Japan marks the next phase of Gray’s extensive career, which has seen him play for several top-tier clubs, including Sale Sharks, Castres, and Toulouse, in addition to his two stints with Glasgow Warriors.

Joining a squad already featuring notable players like former All Black Aaron Smith and South African World Cup-winner Pieter-Steph du Toit, Gray is expected to add significant experience and leadership to the team. His expertise as a lock will be crucial as Toyota Verblitz prepares for the new Japanese rugby season, set to kick off on December 21.

Gray expressed his enthusiasm about the move, saying he’s eager to contribute to the success of Toyota Verblitz and immerse himself in Japanese rugby.

"It's a pleasure to be here," Gray said in a statement released by Toyota.

"I'm really looking forward to seeing you all and trying my best and working hard to be part of a successful environment and a successful Verblitz team."

The team finished seventh in the 12-team Japan Rugby League One last season.