Rising Star Josh Hathaway Shines for Gloucester
As the 20-year-old Josh Hathaway sits in the Lions’ Den bar at Kingsholm, he is surrounded by the rich history of Gloucester Rugby, the club that has provided him with his breakthrough campaign. The walls display team photos dating back to the late 1800s, when the Cherry and Whites were founded, and the names of every player who has represented this historic side.
Hathaway, who is eligible to play for both England and Wales at the senior international level, has already made his mark this season. After representing both countries at the Under-20 Six Nations, he has now firmly established himself in the Gloucester squad, helping the team win the Premiership Rugby Cup and reach the final of the European Challenge Cup.
“International rugby has been a dream of mine since I was three or four years old,” Hathaway tells Mail Sport in his first major newspaper interview. “If I do get the opportunity, it would be a dream come true not just for me, but for my dad as well.”
Born in Aberystwyth, Hathaway started his rugby journey in his hometown, coached by his father Darren from an early age. He then joined the Scarlets academy before being attracted to the prospect of studying at the renowned Hartpury College in England, which has close links with Gloucester.
Gloucester were quick to recognize Hathaway’s potential, signing him to a long-term deal in 2022 after paying a release fee to the Scarlets. The decision has paid dividends, with Hathaway scoring eight tries for the club this season, including a hat-trick against Saracens.
“Hartpury was probably the best two years of my life,” Hathaway reflects. “It was where I saw my rugby future, and it was the best decision I’ve made.”
Despite his impressive performances, Hathaway is keeping his international options open, with both England and Wales monitoring his progress. “I haven’t had any contact from anyone at either country,” he says. “The main thing for me is to retain my place in the Gloucester squad and build on the progress I’ve made.”
This weekend, Hathaway will feature as a replacement in the Challenge Cup final against the Sharks, as Gloucester look to cap off a successful season with European silverware. “It’ll be one of those moments where I’ll have to pinch myself,” he adds. “It’s one of the things I dreamed about as a young child.”
With his combination of talent, determination, and versatility, Josh Hathaway is undoubtedly a player to watch in the coming years, as both England and Wales vie for his services.
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