Boost for Wasps

LONDON // Wasps entertain London Irish today safe in the knowledge that they have stemmed the tide of players leaving Adams Park at the end of the season. On Friday it was announced that 13 players had signed contract extensions, including the prized assets of Danny Cipriani and Tom Rees, who signed for a year and two years respectively. Former England captain Phil Vickery, lock Simon Shaw and prop Tim Payne were the other England players who put pen to paper.

Ian McGeechan, the Wasps coach, was a relieved man. He said: "We are delighted with the volume of players committing to the club for next season and for those to come. This is a great show of intent from the players and the board." griddle@thenational.ae