Sharks snap up young Wasp

11:23am Wednesday 14th May 2008

Comments (0)   Have your say »

AFTER the disappointment of missing out on the Guinness Premiership play-offs, Sale Sharks are determined to return stronger next year.

The club missed out on a shot at the Premiership title after a 17-7 defeat to London Irish on Saturday, which saw them drop out of the league's top four, allowing Leicester to claim a postseason spot at their expense.

But preparations for the next campaign are well underway and after signing both Mathew Tait and Luke Abraham in recent weeks, the club have secured another young English talent.

Wasps flyer David Doherty will arrive at Edgeley Park in the summer on a two-year deal, adding to the wealth of talent already available in the backs division.

The 21-year-old winger has represented England at both under-19 and under-20 level and scored three tries in 16 games at Wasps after joining the club from Leeds in 2006.

Director of rugby Philippe Saint-Andre said: "I am pleased that David is joining Sale Sharks, he is a young player with plenty of potential. He made his mark at Leeds and has played in some big games for Wasps this season.

"I am sure he will fit in with us at Sale Sharks and we look forward to his arrival at pre season training."

Sharks are also expected to announce the arrival of a new forward before the end of the week and the club should have the strength in depth to mount a stronger challenge in next season's Premiership, with Wales international scrum half Dwayne Peel also joining in the summer.