Wasps lock in James Gaskell to new deal

Adam Kyriacou

Wasps have announced that James Gaskell has signed a new contract, becoming the 13th first-team player to commit his future in recent months.

The 29-year-old, who prepares to embark on his sixth season with the Black and Gold, has become a key member of Dai Young’s squad, having now racked up 108 appearances.

Gaskell, who has also skippered the side on occasions, previously spent six seasons with Sale Sharks, becoming their youngest ever captain at just 20-years-old, while he also won the club’s Academy Player of the Season award and Breakthrough Player of the Season award in consecutive years, along with being voted as Players’ Player of the Season in 2010.

A former England U18 and U20, Gaskell also earned international recognition with England Saxons and captained them in 2011.

The 6ft 7in lock, who can also play in the back-row, made 20 appearances for Wasps during the 2018/19 campaign and will no doubt be a key, senior figure heading into 2019/20.

Wasps director of rugby Young said: “Jammer is a fantastic bloke and he’s always someone you can rely on.

“He constantly gives 110 per cent and he’s exactly the kind of leader you want within your squad as he’s a role model for some of the younger players coming through.

“What’s extremely important for us is building some continuity and stability within the squad and with 13 guys having signed new deals in the last six months, we’ve got a core group of players who are now set to be here for the next couple of seasons or so.

“What’s more is that a lot of these guys have a great deal of experience – and having them commit is a real statement in terms of what we’re looking to build upon here at the club.”

Gaskell added: “I’m really enjoying my time here and it’s been a fantastic five years. I want to help contribute to this team to try and bring us success while also bringing on the next generation.

“We’ve got a fantastic group of players who are all very tight-knit, and with so many of us signing new deals it just shows you that we’re all buying into the club and hopefully that consistency will help drive performances on the field too.”