Ian Costello: The Irishman looking to inspire Wasps to Premiership glory

After 11 confirmed cases of Covid-19 within the squad, the final against the Exeter Chiefs was under threat as late as Wednesday

Wasps defense coach Ian Costello during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby match between Wasps and Leicester Tigers at Ricoh Arena last month. Picture: Alex Pantling/Getty Images

You cannot blame Ian Costello for relishing Wasps’ trip to Twickenham Saturday afternoon, it really has been a multi-obstacle race to this belated Gallagher Premiership final.

Never mind the late reprieve the Midlands club got to kick-off against newly-crowned European champions and hot favourites Exeter Chiefs after 11 confirmed cases of Covid-19 within the squad that threatened their participation until as late as Wednesday afternoon. That Wasps even reached the final is a minor miracle given they parted company with director of rugby Dai Young in February with the club struggling in 10th place after only three wins in the first 10 games of the 2019-20 season.