New Wasps deal for Ibanez

Former France captain Raphael Ibanez has extended his contract with Wasps for another year.

Ibanez will also work as part of Wasps’ academy coaching team in a deal that keeps him at the club until the end of next season.

The 35-year-old hooker retired from Test rugby earlier this term, having won 98 caps.

Ibanez said: “I still want some action as a player.

“I still have the fire for competition on the pitch, and I believe I can continue to be effective as a player.

“I am also very excited about the opportunity I have next season to get involved with the Wasps academy and do a bit of coaching.

“I had some options to consider from the French Federation, but I think they came too early for me.

“I need to get some experience first, and I can think of no better place to get that experience than at Wasps.”