hristian Wade, the former England and Wasps winger, is expected to prolong his stay in France by signing a contract extension with Parisian club Racing 92 for the upcoming season.
The former Lions tourist joined Racing last summer after spending three years bidding to break into the NFL with the Buffalo Bills.
RUCK sources suggest Steve Borthwick tried to convince Wade to return to England and be eligble for the RUgby World Cup.
However, Racing are using the rule that allows teams in the Top 14 special dispensation to sign players as cover for squad members away on World Cup duty.
After discussions with the club, Wade, who is approaching his 32nd birthday, is prepared to continue his stay in the French capital, having scored an impressive seven tries in just eight matches for Racing.
5 out and proud rugby players, including first openly gay All Black
In honour of Pride month, RUCK wanted to celebrate five out and proud rugby stars. Their focus? How we can collectively align to take action that drives change on and off the pitch.
1. Campbell Johnstone
The former All Blacks prop has openly come out as gay. Johnstone becomes the first former All Black to do so, and has received tremendous support for this courageous act.
This is a milestone moment for the All Blacks, who have celebrated the occasion, sharing Campbell’s story on social media.
“If I can be the first All Black that comes out as gay and take away the pressure and the stigma surrounding the whole issue then it can actually help other people. Then the public will know that there is one in amongst the All Blacks.”
“To be able to do that could possibly be one of the final pieces in the puzzle for New Zealand sport…it could be a very vital piece that just gives everyone closure.”
“If I open up that door and magically make that closet disappear, then we’re going to help a lot of people.”
Johnstone played three times for the All Blacks, all in 2005. He made his debut against Fiji, and also took on the British and Irish Lions tourists. Johnstone spent his entire Super Rugby career at the Crusaders, before moving to France in 2009 for a four year tenure at Biarritz.
