Sharks re-sign Neil Briggs for one-year in an unprecedented move – Rugby news
In an unexpected post-Premiership 2010/11 season move, Sale Sharks have announced today the extension in contract of their star hooker Neil Briggs. In a statement released by the Sharks earlier today on Thursday May 19, it is
announced that Briggs has signed a 12-month deal to stay with the Sharks.
The Edgeley Park based Premiership club finished third last with six wins from the 22 matches of the 2010/11 Aviva premiership season. Briggs did not hesitate to sign the contract and expressed his satisfaction to further extend
his run with the Sharks. He termed the next 12 months as an interesting phase in his life as the signing has allowed him to play alongside some big names in the domestic and European circuit.
The 25-year-old said, “These are exciting times to be involved at Sale Sharks.” Briggs further added that he has enjoyed every movement that he has spent with the club.
On the occasion, Briggs apologized to the clubs fans for their poor performance in the last season and has expressed his optimism of coming up with a better performance next season. He said, “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time playing for the club and the
supporters have been great with me. Hopefully we can give them plenty to cheer about next season.”
Briggs started his professional career with Rotherham in 2004 and the same year England Under-21 came calling. Briggs, who turns 26 next month, made his Sale Sharks debut against Worcester in 2005.
Briggs has so far made 104 appearances for Sharks and has scored 25 points. Last season, a shoulder injury sustained during a practice session ruled him out of the games for three months. He played on 15 games in the last season and his absence gave a severe
blow to Sharks performance in the season.
During his lay-off from rugby, Briggs developed his coaching skills and he helped the youngster to develop their game. Briggs also took the role of the stand in captain after James Gaskell sustained injury midway in the season. In 2009, Briggs was included
in England Saxons squad and has represented them in the Churchill Cup.
Sale Sharks Executive Director, Steve Diamond, is expensively recruiting big players to strengthen the Sharks squad for next season. Yesterday, Diamond also confirmed the signing of the Scottish International Alasdair Dickinson. The re-signing of Briggs
has helped the Sharks to strengthen their forward pack and their chances of a top finish next season.
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