Welsh-qualified centre Max Clark has joined Bristol Bears on a short-term deal after being left without a club over the summer. The 30-year-old, born in Bridgend, was released by Newcastle Red Bulls at the end of last season and had been training on trial with Harlequins before being signed by the Bears.
Why Bristol needed cover
Bristol are without Benhard Janse van Rensburg, Tom Jordan and Matias Moroni until the first round of the upcoming league campaign due to their involvement in summer internationals. Fellow centre Jack Bates is out with a minor injury, and academy prospect Will Moore is undergoing shoulder surgery.
Those absences have left director of rugby Pat Lam short of cover for the opening block of the PREM Rugby Cup, which kicks off next weekend.
Clark's career so far
Clark brings experience from over 100 top-flight matches to Bristol's midfield. Having come through Bath's academy, the 6ft 3in centre spent a decade at the Rec before a two-year spell in Wales with the Dragons. After leaving Rodney Parade in 2024, he has spent time with Saracens, Ampthill and Newcastle, for whom he made 11 appearances last season.
As the deal was confirmed, Clark said: “I’m very grateful for the opportunity to join the Bears on a short-term deal. I’m looking forward to getting stuck in immediately and adding to this already very tight and talented group.”
Lam's reaction and next steps
Lam added: “Max is an experienced, proven player who gives us important cover in the midfield during this first block of PREM Cup fixtures. With the number of midfield players unavailable for PREM Cup selection, we wanted to add some experienced cover to the group while also ensuring we can manage our squad effectively through this opening period. Max is a strong defender and physical ball carrier and brings a lot of experience to the group. He’s fitted into the environment really well and we’re looking forward to seeing the impact he can make over the coming weeks.”
The signing of Clark follows the arrival of former Leicester Tigers lock Harry Wells on another short-term deal earlier this week.
