Jack Singleton nears rugby return a year after cardiac event but will leave Gloucester

England hooker Jack Singleton is closing in on a return to full training almost a year after a cardiac event forced him off the field, Gloucester announced. The Cherry and Whites confirmed the 30-year-old has entered the final stage of his rehabilitation programme, though any comeback will come at a different club — Gloucester have confirmed Singleton will not be contracted at Kingsholm for the 2026/27 season.

Singleton suffered the cardiac event during a training session in September last year and has since undergone an extensive recovery programme supported by Gloucester and external specialists. The club stressed that his long-term health and wellbeing have been the overriding priority throughout, with a return to full training now under consideration subject to the successful completion of his remaining rehabilitation milestones.

Gloucester head coach George Skivington paid tribute to both the four-cap international and the club’s medical staff. “As friends and colleagues, everyone at the club has been pleased to see Jack’s progress in his health and wellbeing following what was undoubtedly a frightening experience for him and his family,” Skivington said. “I’m incredibly proud of our medical department for the care and support they have provided throughout Jack’s journey, from recognising the symptoms early to coordinating specialist treatment and guiding his rehabilitation.”

Singleton, who previously played for Saracens and Worcester Warriors before joining Gloucester, also expressed his gratitude. “I’d like to thank everyone at Gloucester, the staff, my friends and family, and the supporters for the incredible support I’ve had over the last year. It has meant a huge amount to me.”

The update marks a significant milestone in what has been a difficult 12 months for the hooker. While the confirmation that he will depart Kingsholm at season’s end leaves his next destination uncertain, the progress in his rehabilitation means a return to professional rugby remains a realistic prospect should he clear the final stages of his recovery.