Bryn Gatland, born and bred in Hamilton, is a talented flyhalf who has made his mark in New Zealand rugby. Gatland's journey began at Hamilton Boys' High School, where his skills as a playmaker were honed. In 2015, he made his debut for Waikato in the ITM Cup, showcasing his potential at a provincial level. He spent several years representing Waikato before embarking on new opportunities.
During the 2016 Super Rugby season, Gatland joined the Blues development side, returning to the city of Auckland where he had previously played for a Blues Schools team in 2013. It was a homecoming of sorts for him. Notably, Gatland's father is Warren Gatland, the renowned kiwi-born coach who has led Wales and the British & Irish Lions.
In 2016, Gatland made a move to North Harbour, where he made a significant impact. He played a pivotal role in helping North Harbour secure the Mitre 10 Cup Premiership title with a late drop goal against Otago in Dunedin. His composure and skill were on full display during this crucial moment. Furthermore, he was called up to the Crusaders squad in the same year as temporary injury cover for Richie Mo'unga.
The 2017 Super Rugby season saw Gatland join the Blues squad, initially as injury cover for Piers Francis and Ihaia West. He made his Super Rugby debut for the Blues against the Hurricanes that year. Notably, Gatland faced his father's team, the British and Irish Lions when he represented the Provincial Barbarians in their tour opener in Whangarei on June 3.
Impressive performances for the Blues and the Provincial Barbarians caught the attention of selectors, leading Gatland to sign a one-year deal for the 2018 Super Rugby competition. Following his tenure with the Blues, he moved south to join the Highlanders on a two-year deal, stepping into the shoes of Lima Sopoaga.
Unfortunately, Gatland's first season with the Highlanders was cut short due to a leg injury sustained against the Sunwolves. However, he made a comeback in late 2020 and left a lasting impact by slotting a crucial drop goal in the Highlanders' 28-27 Super Rugby Aotearoa victory over the Chiefs, who were coached by his father at the time. He also featured in three other games for the Highlanders in 2020.
Looking ahead, Gatland signed a three-year deal with the Chiefs, extending his contract until the end of the 2023 season. In the 2020 Mitre 10 Cup campaign, representing North Harbour, he emerged as the competition's leading points scorer, showcasing his consistency and ability to contribute significantly to his team's success.
KG(01/06/2023)
Career
Hamilton Boys High School Fly Half |
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Kobelco Kobe Steelers Fly Half |
2023 - present | |
Waikato Fly Half |
2015 - 2016 | |
Blues Fly Half |
2017 - 2018 | |
Highlanders Fly Half |
2019 - 2020 | |
NZ Provincial Barbarians XV Fly Half |
2017 - 2023 | |
Chiefs Fly Half |
2021 - 2023 | |
North Harbour Fly Half |
2016 - 2024 |