Magnificent 7s to include new signings

WASPS have launched an all-out pace attack on the Premiership Rugby 7s by naming three of their summer signings in the 12-man squad.

Heading to Franklin’s Gardens on Friday night will be Zach Kibirige, Paolo Odogwu and Ben Vellacott who all joined the Black and Golds this summer from Newcastle Falcons, Sale Sharks and Gloucester respectively.

Powerhouse back Ross Neal adds some serious size to the line-up while Academy graduates Tim Cardall, Gabriel Oghre, Will Porter, Jacob Umaga and Callum Sirker are also in the squad.

Wasps attack coach Lee Blackett said: “’For us the main things are, firstly for the individuals like those young guys using it to play in front of big crowds in big games, secondly is for those guys who have just joined the club getting them out there in the black and gold, thirdly is to do as well as we possibly can. We’re taking it as seriously as we possibly can.” Callum Sirker

Senior Academy back-row Will Wilson will captain the 7s team with Vellacott and Porter named as vice-captains.

Extended Academy back Sunni Jardine will also feature as Wasps prepare to battle Bath Rugby and Leicester Tigers on Friday evening, before heading into Saturday’s Plate or Cup competition.

Wasps will be looking to make their fifth consecutive Cup final in the competition, after winning the tournament in 2016 and 2017.

Tickets for this festival of rugby are available from the Northampton Saints ticket office – please visit www. northamptonsaints.co.uk/ buytickets to book.

1. Will Porter, 2. Gabriel Oghre, 3. Sunni Jardine, 4. Tim Cardall, 5. Thibaud Flament, 6. Ross Neal, 7. Will Wilson, 8. Paolo Odogwu, 9. Ben Vellacott, 10. Jacob Umaga, 11. Callum Sirker, 12. Zach Kibirige.