Sale Sharks

Sale Sharks have been handed the ideal morale-booster ahead of tonight’s Edgeley Park clash with reigning Aviva Premiership champions Leicester by swooping to further bolster their pack. Hot on the heels of last week’s capture of Ireland and Munster prop Tony Buckley, the Sharks have clinched a deal to bring powerful Wasps hooker Joe Ward to Stockport.

The 30-year-old has signed a two-year deal with Sale in what is another major coup by new executive director of sport Steve Diamond. Ward boasts vast experience with Wasps having played more than 160 games for the club and was part of the side that won the Heineken Cup in 2007. Though New Zealand-born, Ward has qualified for England through residence and made his Saxons debut at Edgeley Park two years ago.

Ward, together with Buckley and Andrew Sheridan, will also make up what will be the biggest front row in Sale’s history.

“This is another statement of intent for the club as we continue building a big competitive pack for next season and beyond,” said Diamond.

“Joe has been one of the top performers in the Premiership over the last six seasons and I am looking forward to working with him when he joins us in June.”