Hot on the heels of the news the electric no.8 will be returning to the Gallagher Premiership, joining Gloucester Rugby as he bids to up his chances of playing for England in the Rugby World Cup 2023, Mercer will pull on the famous Black and White in November. 

It will be another opportunity for Mercer to show Eddie Jones exactly what he can bring to an international side, with the Rugby World Cup in France just a year away.

Mercer said: “I cannot wait to be pulling on that famous shirt in November. Playing for the Barbarians is something you dream of as a player – not just the matchday experience but the legendary players and coaches you work with, as well as the lifelong friendships you form.

“Of course my path has crossed with O’Gara in the Top 14 and he is a world-class coach. Being in a squad lead by him and Scott Robertson is going to be such an awesome experience. Both of them are up there with the best coaches in the world and I’m sure I will learn a lot from them and the whole group of players who they bring together – both on and off the pitch.”

Mercer has been on fire for Montpellier in the French Top 14, helping guide the southern French side to the win the national league championship. His bid to return to the England fold dramatically improved after signing a long-term deal with the Cherry and Whites. 

On returning to England to play for Gloucester – West Country rivals of his old club Bath – Mercer said: “To be given the opportunity to come back and play in the Premiership with Gloucester is one that I couldn’t turn down. The loyal fans and atmosphere at Kingsholm is something I can’t wait to be part of.

“Alex Brown, Skivs [Head Coach George Skivington] and the whole coaching group are building a strong team and a great environment on the field, and I believe I can add a lot of value. I can’t wait.

“I have another season here with Montpellier and I’ll be giving all my focus to the club in trying secure back-to-back titles and European cup success.”

The two famous sides will compete for The Killik Cup. It is the next opportunity to see the Barbarians in action following a successful summer with emphatic back-to-back wins over England and Spain.

The All Blacks XV is a new element to the New Zealand Rugby set-up and development. The high-performance team representing New Zealand overseas represents a development opportunity for future All Blacks as well as a chance for current players to make their case for All Blacks selection or recall.

Killik & Co are delighted to be the match sponsor for the Barbarians annual Autumn International once again, marking over a decade of The Killik Cup.

Tickets are available from £40 for adults and £25 for children*. Visit www.ticketmaster.co.uk/barbarians to get your tickets now.

For all hospitality premium packages, go to www.tottenhamhotspur.com for more information. 

(* Booking Fees Apply)