Oghre signs new Bristol Bears deal after scoring on England debut against USA

Gabriel Oghre has signed a new contract with Bristol Bears, securing the hooker’s future at the club after a debut England try against the USA in Washington DC in July 2025 and two prolific seasons in the Premiership.

The 28-year-old has made 63 appearances for the Bears since joining ahead of the 2023/24 campaign, scoring 26 tries — a remarkable return for a hooker. His form earned him a first international call-up, and he marked the occasion with a try on debut, a milestone he described as a career-defining moment.

“I’m really happy to have signed a new contract and to continue my journey with the Bears,” Oghre said. “Earning my first England cap was a massive goal of mine when I came back to England and something I’m incredibly proud of, but it’s also given me even more motivation to keep improving and pushing for more opportunities at international level.”

Oghre, who previously played for Wasps, Leicester Tigers and Bordeaux-Bègles, added that Bristol’s style of play has been central to his development. “The way we want to play really suits me and gives me the freedom to express myself, while the coaches have continued to challenge me to improve all areas of my game.”

Bristol director of rugby Pat Lam was equally enthusiastic, pointing to Oghre’s trajectory as evidence that the best is still to come. “Gabs has developed into one of the leading hookers in the Prem and we’re delighted that he has committed his future to the Bears,” Lam said. “Seeing him earn his first England cap was a proud moment for everyone here. He came to Bristol with the ambition of getting into that England team and it’s been fantastic to see him achieve that.”

Lam highlighted Oghre’s physical profile as a particular asset. “His athleticism, power and skillset really suit the way we want to play, and at 28, Gabs is coming into the prime years of his career. The most exciting thing is that we believe his best is still to come from him.”

With England’s international calendar continuing and Bristol aiming to build on recent seasons, Oghre’s retention represents a significant piece of business for Lam’s squad.