Jack Singleton joins Glasgow Warriors 13 months after cardiac event

Jack Singleton has signed a short-term contract with Glasgow Warriors as he works towards returning to rugby, 13 months after a cardiac event during training. BBC Sport reported that the 30-year-old former England hooker will provide cover during the Nations Championship and Six Nations, although he does not yet know when he will be ready to play.

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Singleton's arrival follows six years at Gloucester, where he scored 20 tries in 75 appearances. He previously played for Worcester and Saracens, and spent the 2023-24 season on loan at Toulon. His international career includes four England caps and selection for the 2019 World Cup squad. He last played for England in 2022.

Speaking about his recovery, Singleton said doctors had identified a hereditary condition that had previously been unknown to him. He underwent procedures involving stents and balloons to open his arteries. He told BBC Sport that treatment and medication had brought the condition under greater control, and that he considered himself in a safer position than when he was playing 16 months ago.

The possibility of never returning to the sport had entered his thoughts, Singleton acknowledged. He has been completing full running sessions since May, but his immediate focus is joining Glasgow's training programme rather than setting a match date. While expressing eagerness to play, he also accepted that an immediate appearance would not necessarily allow him to perform at his best.

The signing comes with Glasgow potentially facing absences at hooker during the international windows. Gregor Hiddleston and Seb Stephen are likely to receive Scotland call-ups for fixtures in November, February and March, according to BBC Sport. Singleton's agreement is intended to give the Warriors additional cover across those periods as he continues preparing for a playing return.

Singleton also qualifies for Scotland through his grandparents, but said his priorities remain training and getting back on the field with Glasgow. He described joining the squad as a privilege and recalled watching the Warriors' European campaign, including their game against Toulouse. For now, any international prospects remain secondary to resuming his club career.