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Taylor Paris is officially a free agent after Castres Olympique opted not to re-sign the Canadian winger. Despite being a regular starter in his three seasons with the club, the pandemic has forced the 2018 Top 14 champions to make significant cuts to their payroll heading into the 2020-21 season.
Now approaching his 28th birthday, Paris has been in France since signing for Agen in 2013 and has ‘JIFF’ status which means he is not considered an import in the French professional leagues. A proven test performer with 18 tries in 28 caps for Canada, it’s only a spotty injury record that might be of concern to potential employers. Paris missed the 2015 World Cup with a knee injury and appeared just once in Japan after suffering concussion.
Even given the uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 shutdown it’s unlikely Paris will remain on the market for long. It’s understood he is currently being pursued at least one French club while Major League Rugby could be an alternative with the Barrie native keen to continue his business education as he casts an eye towards his post-playing career.
Castres meanwhile will remain the home of two Canadians. Matt Tierney has one year remaining on his contract with Tyler Ardron set to arrive from the Chiefs next season. Argentina’s Benjamín Urdapilleta will stay on for another season, and as Rodrigo Capó Ortega retires another Uruguayan joins in burgeoning star Santiago Arata.
