Chris Ashton leaves Worcester Warriors

Former England flyer Chris Ashton has left Premiership outfit Worcester Warriors with immediate effect, it was announced on Monday.

The Sixways-based club confirmed the 34-year-old’s departure was by mutual consent, bringing to an end a frustrating spell for the player.

“Ashton arrived at Sixways from Harlequins 11 months ago, but calf and knee injuries have prevented him from playing for Warriors this season,” Worcester said in a statement.

“The daily commute from his home in Northampton had also proved challenging, so the club and Ashton have agreed a release from his contract which was due to expire at the end of this season.”

Premiership journeyman

Worcester became Ashton’s fifth Premiership club following spells with Northampton, Saracens, Sale and Quins.

He made his England debut in 2010, going on to win 44 caps and scoring 20 tries.

Ashton’s final England appearance was against France at Twickenham in 2019.

‘Sale Sharks bucked a trend’ – Alex Sanderson

Meanwhile, Alex Sanderson conceded that his Sale Sharks team bucked a trend when they beat the Ospreys in Sunday’s Champions Cup encounter in Swansea despite a huge penalty count against them.

Although the Sharks sealed a 21-13 victory in Swansea, they conceded 18 penalties to the Ospreys’ four.

“We came away with a win down in south Wales on a wet day in a big competition, so I am very happy with the outcome,” Sale rugby director Sanderson said.