Val Rapava-Ruskin, born on 12 October 1992, is an English rugby union player who currently plays for Gloucester in the Premiership Rugby. He has had a diverse career, playing for various clubs around the world.
Rapava-Ruskin left his native Georgia at the age of two and grew up in England. He began his rugby career at Blackheath, a club in England. In 2011, he moved to South Africa and joined Western Province to play in the U19 Currie Cup. That same year, he captained the Georgia U19 team.
After his stint in South Africa, he returned to England and played a few games for Saracens Storm in the A-League.
In 2013, Rapava-Ruskin joined the French club Toulon, where he played for their U23 team. During his time with Toulon, he had a trial with Worcester Warriors. He made his professional debut for Worcester on 20 September 2014 at the age of 21, playing against Doncaster. He scored five tries in the RFU Championship, including two against Rotherham Titans in October 2014.
On 10 January 2017, Rapava-Ruskin left Worcester Warriors and joined local rivals Gloucester, starting from the 2017-18 season. In June 2019, he was named as one of the four uncapped players in England's preliminary World Cup training squad. He has become a key player in Gloucester's front row, known for his strong scrummaging and mobility on the field.
Rapava-Ruskin's journey in rugby has seen him transition from a back row forward to a prop. He has made significant contributions to his teams and has gained experience playing in different countries and leagues.
KG(23/06/2023)
Career
 |
Gloucester Rugby Loosehead Prop |
2017 - present |
 |
Worcester Warriors Loosehead Prop |
2015 - 2017 |
 |
England Loosehead Prop |
2023 - 2023 |
