Haskell extends Wasps contract

Wasps captain James Haskell has committed his future to the club by signing a contract extension.

England international Haskell has made 160 appearances for Wasps since becoming the youngest player to represent them, making his debut in 2002 as an 18-year-old.

The flanker returned to Wasps in 2012 following stints abroad with Stade Francais and the Otago Highlanders, and was voted Players' Player of 2013/14, and made club captain in 2014.

"I am delighted and over the moon to be extending my contract with Wasps," said Haskell. "It is the only Premiership club I have ever known and feels like home, even after my stint around the world.

"I supported Wasps as an avid fan from the age of 13, so to be able to extend my stay, and lead the boys out as captain, is a dream come true.

"Obviously it wasn't a decision I took lightly as being 30 it was really important I chose a team that I felt were going to compete and ultimately win silverware. I am motivated personally by always trying to improve and have a burning desire to win more silverware.

"With Dai Young in charge and our owner Derek Richardson at the helm, I felt Wasps were a team that would do that. We have a developing and exciting squad that I feel will continue in an upwards trajectory and only get better. It's an honour to be part of that process.

"It was also important that I stayed in the UK to continue my quest to play for England again. Pulling on that white shirt is why I get up every day and I feel I still have more to give at that level.

"As a club, we are starting a new chapter in Coventry with old and new fans, who have been out of this world in their support for the team. To front the move and start a new chapter is very exciting."

Haskell's first stint with Wasps came between 2002 and 2009, during which he helped his side to Premiership and Heineken Cup titles before opting for a move to Top 14 side Stade Francais. A spell in Japan after the 2011 RWC with the Ricoh Black Rams followed, before the 62-cap international headed to New Zealand to represent the Otago Highlanders in Super Rugby.

Wasps' Director of Rugby Dai Young was delighted with the flanker's decision to remain with the club.

"James has been an outstanding captain for us, as well as one of our key performers over the past few seasons," said Young. "His decision to extend his contract shows his belief in this squad and the direction the club is moving in.

"As one of our senior players, James will play an integral part in the squad's development, helping to drive standards and performance. He is excited by the leadership role and I am sure he will continue to excel at it.

He was also a key influence in helping the club make a smooth transition to Coventry and we are thrilled he will continue to play a big part in Wasps' future.

"'Hask is a larger-than-life character, but he is also a true professional in his approach to the game and is always one of the last to leave training after doing extras. That drive to keep on improving is the reason he has produced some of his best rugby of his career over the past couple of seasons. 

"James is hungry to continue playing for England and I think he's a genuine option to go right through to the next World Cup."