However, he very quickly identified that Gloucester Rugby was a good fit for him and he's liking what he's seen so far.
"I just felt there was a great balance here at Gloucester with some good backs and a hardy forward pack.
"When I made the decision after the World Cup, my manager put the word out and Gloucester were looking for a half back. It all kind of went from there.
"I was fortunate that they came looking. I did a bit of research and what I found reminded me of my club back home in Southland."
Cowan was a big club man back home at Southland and he's spotted similarities between his former and current clubs.
"I feel it's the number one sport around here, with a great fan base and people take real pride in wearing the Gloucester jersey.
"That's why I play the game. I'm a passionate man and I love playing rugby. I wear my heart on my sleeve when I'm playing and I think that's what's expected here at Gloucester.
"It's certainly lived up to that in the few weeks that I've been here. It's been an amazing experience to date and I'm looking forward to more of it."
To read more about Jimmy, see Saturday's matchday programme in which he is the featured player.
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