Following an extensive period of recruitment and re-signings, Head Coach Alex Rae has assembled a squad that blends continuity, experience and fresh competition across the park, providing a strong platform to build on the progress made in recent seasons.

Much of last season's squad has committed its future to the club, with Coventry retaining the core group that has helped establish a strong culture and togetherness within the dressing room. That continuity has been complemented by a number of exciting additions, strengthening competition in every position.

The forward pack once again boasts plenty of power and experience. Fijian duo Senitiki Nayalo and Onisivoro Sukani Nayagi continue their unique journey balancing Coventry Rugby with service in the British Army, while brothers Aristot and Jono Benz-Salomon provide strength in the front row, with Jono arriving at the Nick Newbold Stadium ahead of the new campaign.

The pack is further bolstered by the arrivals of Rhys Fulford, Ethan Hunt, Tumy Onasanya, Marcus Rhodes and Rhys Tait, adding quality, physicality and depth to Coventry's forward options. They join an established group that includes Tom Ball, Morgan Strong and Jordon Poole, giving Rae a wealth of carrying power and set-piece strength heading into the new season. A further front-row addition is expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

Behind the scrum, Coventry have also added significant firepower. Alex Garrett, Bruce Houston, Matt McNab and Joe Margetts all arrive ahead of the 2026/27 campaign, bringing a wealth of experience and attacking quality to the back line.

Those additions complement a settled group of retained players, with Tom Bacon, Api Bavadra and Sam Maunder among those extending their stays at the club. Alongside Josh Barton, Murray Davidson, Dafydd-Rhys Tiueti, Dan Green and several other key figures who have committed to Coventry for another season, Rae has retained the spine of a squad that has grown together over recent years while introducing fresh competition across the squad.

With the balance of continuity and recruitment, Coventry enters the new season with genuine optimism. The club has worked hard to retain the players who have driven its progress while adding exciting new talent capable of taking the squad to another level.

The Senior Academy pathway continues to feed the first-team picture, with Cornelius Nartey, Charlie Stallard, Will Dorrell and Elefio Vulimai-Igiladi all promoted into the senior ranks off the back of impressive form in the Junior Academy. They'll train and compete alongside Sam Gibson, Sam Harding and Taio Varndell as the club continues to invest in home-grown talent.

Supporters will get their first look at the new-look squad at home when Coventry host Ospreys on Friday 4th September. Tickets are on sale now for what promises to be a thriller against the Welsh side.

Full 2026/27 Squad

Forwards: Aristot Benz-Salomon, Jono Benz-Salomon, Tom Ball, Murray Davidson, Rhys Fulford, Mackenzie Graham, Dan Green, Ethan Hunt, Matt Johnson, Keston Lines, Senitiki Nayalo, Onisivoro Sukani Nayagi, Tumy Onasanya, Jordon Poole, Marcus Rhodes, Jack Shine, Morgan Strong, Rhys Tait, New Prop (TBA)

Backs: Tom Bacon, Josh Barton, Api Bavadra, Alex Garrett, Bruce Houston, Joe Margetts, Tommy Mathews, Sam Maunder, Matt McNab, Tom Miles, Jack Reeves, Peter Sullivan, Josh Thomas, Dafydd-Rhys Tiueti

Senior Academy: Will Dorrell, Sam Gibson, Sam Harding, Cornelius Nartey, Charlie Stallard, Taio Varndell, Elefio Vulimai-Igiladi

2026/27 Season Tickets are available now - secure your place at every home game as Coventry Rugby prepares for another exciting Champ Rugby season at the Nick Newbold Stadium.