Gloucester Rugby has appointed Dewi Lake as their club captain for the 2026-27 season. Lake, a new signing for the current season, will take on the leadership role following the departure of former captain Tomos Williams, who moved to Saracens earlier this summer. The 27-year-old hooker, a key position in rugby that involves both ball-carrying and rucking, has earned 34 caps for Wales and has captained his national team on 22 occasions, including during the recent international matches. Lake expressed his pride at being named captain, thanking the coaching staff and stating his intention to lead with guidance and support from the experienced players already at the club. Dewi Lake’s appointment follows a transition in leadership at Gloucester. Lewis Ludlow, who served as the club's longest-serving captain for five years, had previously spoken about the emotional challenge of passing on the armband to Tomos Williams last summer. Ludlow even joked that he would take the captaincy back if given the chance. The decision to name Lake as captain was made after the team spent time together during the season, allowing the coaching staff and players to assess leadership qualities. Head coach George Skivington emphasized that the choice was based on Lake’s proven leadership skills and the collective input of the playing group and coaching staff, who believed he is best suited to guide the team through the upcoming season and beyond. Lake joins another Welsh international, Jac Morgan, in moving to Gloucester ahead of the new campaign. Both players will make their Premiership debuts with the club, marking a significant addition to Gloucester’s squad. Their arrival is expected to bolster the team’s strength in the forward positions, which are crucial for both defense and attack in rugby. With Lake’s experience and Morgan’s presence, Gloucester is looking to build a strong and cohesive leadership core as they prepare for the challenges of the new season. The club’s management expressed confidence in Lake’s ability to bring unity and direction to the team, building on his successful career with Wales and his emerging role as a key figure in Gloucester’s future.