By Peter Ryan
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The Leicester Tigers are still hunting for their replacement for Handré Pollard. It will always be a massive task to replace the South African superstar.
There have been many names thrown about as heading to Welford Road. A few of those names have found destinations for next year.
This has left many people wondering who Leicester will sign for next year. As fate would have it, a former Tiger seeks new adventures as this season draws to a close.
As Burns prepares to leave Japan, it’s hard not to think a reunion with Leicester Tigers could be the perfect next step. There’s unfinished business there.
The Career of Freddie Burns
Burns is a talented, seasoned fly-half who knows how to perform on the rugby pitch. His career is a tribute to adaptability, playing in different leagues and environments.
This adaptability is a key strength that could make him a seamless fit for the Leicester Tigers team.
His professional career began in 2008 at Gloucester, where he made over 100 appearances for the ‘Cherry and Whites’ and scored many points.
His time at Kingsholm wasn’t without reward; Burns tasted victory with Gloucester after the Anglo-Welsh Cup.
The Englishman went on to have a first stint with the Tigers, where he was once again an Anglo-Welsh Cup winner.
He endeared himself to the Leicester faithful, as evidenced by his Supporters’ Player of the Year award.
Second spell with Leicester
After stints with Bath and a chapter overseas in Japan, Burns eventually found his way back to Leicester for a second spell.
He relished his return to Welford Road, etching his name into history. In 2022, he struck a pitch-perfect drop goal to secure a 15-12 victory over Saracens in the Premiership final.
In a rare move for an English player, he took his talents to the Southern Hemisphere, turning out for the Highlanders in Super Rugby before going to Japan.
Burns has made an impact not only in the club game but also on the international stage.
His international experience is a testament to his abilities and could bring a new level of expertise to the Leicester Tigers team.
He has notched up over 20 caps for his country. In 2012, Burns burst onto the international stage against the mighty All Blacks, his debut a spark amid a global arena.
A year later, he lent his flair to England’s 2013 Argentina tour, inscribing his mark on a canvas of passion and promise.
Burns has had a phenomenal journey and could still give a lot to any team who want his services.
Tigers’ Fly-Half Hunt
One topic discussed throughout the season is who will wear the number 10 jersey for Leicester next season.
As stated before, many big names have been linked to the move. Reports revealed that the club wanted to return Owen Farrell to the Gallagher Premiership.
For now, Farrell will ride out the remainder of his journey in the French capital, donning the colours of Racing 92.
For a brief time, rumours started swirling that Jack Crowley would leave Ireland for Leicester. Again, those rumours came to nothing as he stayed at Munster.
Gareth Anscombe seemed a realistic option, with other names disappearing from the market until word came that Bayonne had claimed him for next season.
The Tigers desperately need depth at fly-half, especially with Jamie Shillcock agreeing to move across the Channel. It lines up perfectly for a Burns reunion.
Could it work?
At 34, Burns may not be a long-term option, but his experience and potential to perform at a high level cannot be overlooked.
RugbyPass has reported that, as Fin Smith approaches his contract year, the Tigers are ready to put in a lucrative bid for the rising superstar.
Should they land the marquee signing of Smith, Burns could serve as the ideal short-term bridge, particularly with Pollard set to return to the Vodacom Bulls, highlighting the potential importance of Burns’ role in the team.
Freddie Burns‘ career has been fascinating and has left an impression wherever he has gone. A potential third stint with the English giants would carry a certain poetry for Burns.
However, with Pollard’s exit, he would be tasked with filling boots few can truly replace, adding to the anticipation of his return and the potential impact he could have on the team.
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