Haskell: playing for England is top priority

Top priority: Haskell wearing the Red Rose jersey

England flanker James Haskell insists that playing for England tops his list of priorities as he decides where to hang his hat next season.

Out of contract with Stade Francais this summer, but with a one-year option to stay, the 26-year-old said: “I am exploring different options in France and England and I’ll decide in the next two weeks. There are some great teams in the Premiership and French Club dominate European rugby.”

“Playing for England remain my most important criteria, but I believe if I play at the best club level I can still be picked and perform well for England.

Tom Palmer happy to stay at Stade

Tom Palmer: staying in Paris

Despite rumours across the Channel that he might be leaving Stade Francais, Tom Palmer insists he will be definitely playing in Paris next season.

The England lock said: “I still have one year in my contract and I am going nowhere. I love living here and I love the culture in France.

“And to be honest I would like to stay in France after next season when my contract ends. But I will see my options and make a decision only then.”

No.8 Wim Baars relieved as Canterbury on the way to stay in League 2

With two games to go in National League 2, Canterbury RFC pretty much secured their place in the league after a cruising victory against Newbury 81-5 on the weekend. A situation that No.8 Wim Baars is “happy and relieved about.”

“Coming off with the win was really good especially against Newbury. They beat us earlier in the season where they shouldn’t have.

“Everyone at the club is feeling pretty good. We are still a bit apprehensive about what the next results could bring but everyone is pretty positive and fired up.

“We are looking to go forward this weekend, go away and get another win hopefully,” said the 26-year-old.