Jean Kleyn is set to bring a Springbok mentality to Gloucester Rugby as he embarks on a new chapter with the English Premiership club. The South African lock, who featured in South Africa’s victorious 2023 Rugby World Cup campaign, joined Gloucester ahead of the current season, hoping to instill a winning culture within a team that opened their campaign with an impressive 45-24 victory over Exeter, a favourite for the title.

Standing 6 feet 8 inches tall and weighing 19 stone 4 pounds, Kleyn embodies the physical attributes typical of a South African lock. His rugby journey has been distinctive; after initially playing for Munster and earning five caps for Ireland in 2019, Kleyn switched allegiances to South Africa in 2023. Now, at 33, he has committed to a three-year contract with Gloucester, bringing experience and a competitive edge to a club that underwent significant changes during the summer transfer window. Gloucester also bolstered their squad with Wales co-captains Dewi Lake and Jac Morgan while adjusting to the departure of scrum-half Tomos Williams to Saracens.

Kleyn credits the leadership and philosophy instilled by Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus, emphasizing a team-first approach shaped by South Africa’s complex history. He highlighted the importance of unity and collective purpose in driving success both for his national side and now at Gloucester.

“There’s a similar mindset at Gloucester. Hard workers. There’s been a big change over the summer with new players and new coaching staff,” Kleyn said. “I didn’t feel like I was being dropped into a system that was already so established that you can’t affect it. I felt I could help implement what I’ve learned.”

Kleyn’s rugby roots trace back to university rugby in South Africa, where his physicality and aggression stood out more than refined skills. His career path has since taken him from student rugby to professional success across multiple countries. Beyond his playing career, Kleyn has personal ties across Ireland and England, having moved from Ireland with his wife Aisling and their two children. They have settled near Gloucester, maintaining family connections to Galway, Ireland.

Despite opportunities to play in Japan’s top league, known for less strenuous demands and lucrative contracts, Kleyn opted for the challenges posed by English rugby. He is focused on consistent performance at Gloucester while aiming to re-enter the Springbok squad, which faces critical upcoming matches in the inaugural Nations Championship against Italy, France, and Ireland.

Reflecting on a landmark year, Kleyn described 2023 as “probably the year of my life,” marked not only by the World Cup victory but personal milestones including the birth of his first child and Munster’s United Rugby Championship win. His dedication to the sport remains clear, with an emphasis on the physical aspects of the game such as scrummaging, mauling, and tackling.

After recovering from a biceps tendon injury that sidelined him during South Africa’s June series, Kleyn is now focused on delivering strong performances at Gloucester. His aim is to impress Springbok selectors and contribute to South Africa’s pursuit of a third consecutive World Cup title.

Gloucester’s next fixture against Harlequins will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 1.