Billy Twelvetrees: Worcester Warriors sign ex-England & Gloucester back

Former England back Billy Twelvetrees has come out of retirement to join Worcester Warriors as a player-coach.

Twelvetrees, who won 22 caps for England and played one game for the British and Irish Lions after being called up as a replacement in 2013, retired as a player last year to become a coach with Championship side Hartpury.

The 36-year-old becomes the Warriors latest signing ahead of their return to professional rugby next season, two-and-a-half years after going into administration.

“Joining Worcester Warriors as a player-coach is a fantastic opportunity,” said Twelvetrees.

“I’m excited to be contributing both on and off the field, helping to develop talent and bring real energy to the squad.

“It’s a challenge I’m ready for and I can’t wait to get started.”

Twelvetrees began his 17-year career with Bedford Blues before joining Leicester Tigers in 2009 where he won the Premiership in his first season.

The centre then moved to Gloucester in 2012 and made 273 appearances in 11 years with the Cherry and Whites.

The move reunites Twelvetrees with former Leicester Tigers team-mate Matt Everard, who was appointed Warriors head coach in May.

“Billy is one of those special people that after spending just a short amount of time with, you will never forget,” said Everard.

“Kind, incredibly hard-working and always has such a positive impact on people.”

Twelvetrees joins a number of new recruits at Sixways ahead of the club’s return, including Uruguay back Juan Gonzalez, Leicester Tigers prop Tim Hoyt and Exeter Chiefs prop Billy Keast.

The club have also brought in Cornish Pirates full-back/wing Will Trewin, Warriors legend Matt Kvesic, former Wales scrum-half Lloyd Williams, Saracens prop Fraser Balmain and Dragons fly-half Will Reed.