Kyle Sinckler is set to uphold the Bristol Bears tradition of playing for the Barbarians, as the England international prop has been selected for the invitational side’s Killik Cup match against Fiji this summer. The 31-year-old tighthead prop will don the iconic Black and White hoops for the first time in his career on Saturday, June 22, at Twickenham Stadium. The match pits the Rugby World Cup quarter-finalists against a Barbarians team led by Kiwi coach Robbie Deans, featuring players such as Danny Care, Ben Youngs, Zach Mercer, Jonathan Joseph, Jonny May, David Ribbans, and now Sinckler.
Sinckler, who will leave the Bears for Toulon this summer, said: “First and foremost, it’s a massive honour for me to be asked to represent the Barbarians. I remember growing up and watching the BaaBaas, thinking they were like the Harlem Globetrotters of rugby – a team playing with a unique style, packed full of superstar players. It is definitely something I’ve always wanted to experience myself.
I’m excited to connect with a new group of players, some of whom I will have played alongside before, and others who I’ll only ever have played against previously. The Barbarians is obviously a more laid-back environment, but there’s essentially a Test match against Fiji to prepare for at the end of the week, so I’m looking forward to seeing how this group of world-class players approach it.
Whether it’s been with England, the Lions, or in club rugby, I’ve always loved learning off other players who have achieved great things in their careers. You want to ask the right questions and be a keen observer of what the best players in the world are doing to get better. Especially in the front row, there’s always more to learn, so I can’t wait to get started and will enjoy everything the Barbarians experience has to offer.”
Over 55,000 fans have already reserved their seats for this summer’s premier rugby event. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster, Ticketek, or the RFU and include access to the Qatar Airways Cup match between South Africa and Wales, which kicks off at 2:00pm, before the Barbarians take on Fiji.
