The 2026/27 recruitment window has turned into one of the busiest in years, and no group has been more mobile than Scotland's internationals. Hamish Watson, the 2021 Six Nations Player of the Year, is the latest to head for the Top 14, signing with Castres for next season after a short-term stint at Leicester came to an end.
The 34-year-old flanker, capped 60 times by Scotland and the British and Irish Lions across 180 appearances for Edinburgh, was drafted in quickly after Castres lost Dalton Papali'i to a long-term injury.
"The opportunity to discover French rugby is a fantastic prospect for me," Watson said.
He added: "Given Dalton Papali'i's injury, Castres Olympique contacted me in recent days, and I had to make a very quick decision. I did so with enthusiasm. I know that several great Scottish players have played for Castres and I am joining this club in great shape with the firm intention of helping them perform at the highest level."
Watson is far from alone. Adam Hastings has joined Montpellier and Huw Jones has moved to Toulon, part of a steady drift of Scottish talent toward France's cash-rich league.
Ireland's provinces have been active too. Munster confirmed the signing of former England tighthead Kieran Brookes on a two-year deal from Perpignan, while tying down Michael Ala'alatoa to a new contract.
"I'm incredibly proud and excited to be joining Munster Rugby. It's a club with a rich history and a unique identity," said Brookes, the 35-year-old who won 16 England caps. "I'm looking forward to meeting the fans, working alongside the players and coaches, and giving everything I can to contribute to the success of the club."
Head coach Clayton McMillan pointed to the value of experience in the front row. "It is really pleasing that we have been able to bring in a player of Kieran's experience in such an attritional position and we are delighted that Michael will be staying on next season," he said. "Kieran has been playing at the top level for well over a decade and his skillset, particularly in the set-piece, will be invaluable for us over the next two years."
In Wales, Cardiff have landed a marquee homecoming. Fly-half Jarrod Evans is returning to the Arms Park after three seasons at Harlequins, rejoining the club where he made 126 appearances, scored 765 points and won the 2018 Challenge Cup in his first stint.
"I feel like I have matured as a player and person, it's good to get different experiences," the 29-year-old said. "I've had three seasons with Harlequins where I was out of my comfort zone, experiencing a different environment and style, so hopefully there are things I can bring back to Cardiff."
With the URC, Premiership and Top 14 seasons not restarting until September, more moves are expected before the pre-season window closes. The early running suggests France's clubs, once again, are winning the battle for northern-hemisphere experience.
