Bristol Bears winger Louis Rees-Zammit marked his rugby union comeback with an eventful performance at Kingsholm, finding the scoresheet and receiving a yellow card in a heated PREM Cup encounter with former side Gloucester.
The 24-year-old Welshman, who recently ended an 18-month American football venture, needed just 22 minutes to cross for his first try since returning to the sport.
The match took a contentious turn before half-time when Rees-Zammit clashed with Wales team-mate Caio James.
Both players traded words and physical exchanges, resulting in the Bristol player's temporary dismissal as they made their way off the field.
Louis Rees-Zammit was sin-binned for his part in a fight that broke out between the two sides
|PREM
The former Gloucester favourite received a mixed reception from supporters, who directed jeers his way throughout an intense opening period.
His celebration after touching down particularly irked the home faithful, as he threw the ball skyward following a flowing move.
The try came after Rees-Zammit gathered a pass from Toby Baker, found space and accelerated past Jake Morris down the flank.
Not everything went the Bristol player's way. He squandered a clear scoring chance after executing his trademark chip and chase, only to lose control of the ball with the tryline beckoning.
The atmosphere shifted when Pat Lam's men made a substitution after 56 minutes, with Max Pepper replacing Rees-Zammit.
The disagreement continued after both Louis Rees-Zammit and Caio James were shown yellow cards
|PREM
Kingsholm's supporters set aside their earlier hostility to acknowledge their former player with warm applause.
The speedy back has been working to regain peak condition following his time pursuing an NFL career in the United States. His preparation has included dropping weight and building match sharpness ahead of the Gallagher Premiership campaign starting next week.
Bristol's latest recruit appears primed for top-flight action after his American football experience, which saw him spend a year and a half away from rugby union.
The Welsh international harbours ambitions of representing his country again, with autumn fixtures against Argentina, Japan, South Africa and New Zealand on the horizon. His availability could prove timely for the national team selectors.
Wales assistant coach Steve Tandy has opened the door for Rees-Zammit's international return, suggesting the player could feature in upcoming Tests.
**SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE DAILY GB NEWS SPORTS NEWSLETTER HERE**
An eventful return to Kingsholm Stadium for Louis Rees-Zammit ⚡️ pic.twitter.com/exf95iY4jA
— PREM Rugby (@premrugby) September 20, 2025
"I think you wouldn't rule anything out," Tandy said when asked about the winger's prospects for autumn selection.
"Zammo brings a big effect and excitement by coming back. I think it's great for the game."
The coach praised Rees-Zammit's decision to explore opportunities abroad, adding: "He's gone away to experience something new, which is class. I'm sure he will be in outstanding physical condition."
LATEST SPORTS NEWS:
- Team GB star calls herself a 'track Goddess' after 'sexy and aggressive' World Athletics Championship race
- Lewis Hamilton, 40, explains decision to sell £13m car collection ahead of Azerbaijan Grand Prix
- Sir Alex Ferguson, 83, makes heartbreaking admission after moving house following death of wife Cathy
Louis Rees-Zammit has returned to rugby union after attempting to infiltrate the NFL last year
|REUTERS
Tandy acknowledged that while Rees-Zammit's return strengthens Wales' options, it creates welcome selection dilemmas.
"The more players we have available to represent our country the better," he explained.