Harlequins today announce the signing of former Wasps winger Josh Bassett, who joins the Club with immediate effect until the end of the season as further cover for Quins’ backline.
The 30-year-old has been one of the most consistent performers in the Gallagher Premiership since making his debut for Wasps in 2013.
Representing Wasps over 180 times and claiming 65 tries along the way, the 6ft3in winger achieved the feat of representing England U20 whilst playing for original club Bedford in the Championship and was picked by England Head Coach Eddie Jones in June 2021 ahead of the team’s Summer Series Internationals.
A regular feature for Wasps in the league, Bassett played more minutes than any other outside back during the 2021/22 season, second only to Andre Esterhuizen.
Commenting, Bassett said: “I’m excited to join Harlequins and am grateful for the opportunity to jump straight back into action with such a prestigious club. Quins play an exciting brand of rugby and I’m looking forward to trying my hand at the Harlequins Way of playing.”
Harlequins Head Coach Tabai Matson said: “We continue to be saddened and have sympathy for all the players, coaches and staff at Wasps at this difficult time.
“We’re happy to be able to support Josh to maintain his career and to have such a high-class operator join the group at a time where we have backline injuries.
“Josh has been one of the most consistently high-performing wingers in the toughest league in the world and we count ourselves as extremely fortunate to have him join us.
“Josh has played in a Wasps team that has embraced a similar, attack-included mindset to our own philosophy and I’m sure he will slot into the Harlequins Way of doing things smoothly.”
Where are Wasps stars going (Rumoured)?
Alfie Barbeary: Bordeaux-Begles
Jack Willis: Bristol Bears, Leicester Tigers
Charlie Atkinson: Leicester Tigers
Biyi Alo: Racing 92
NIGEL OWENS DREAM XV:
Fullback: Israel Folau (Australia)
Owens said: “For me, it’s nip and tuck between Halfpenny and Folau, next to nothing to choose between them. Leigh is brilliant because under the high ball and with his kicking at goal under pressure. He may not always break the line when running but puts his body on the line in defence and is a top-notch match-winner.
“But I go for Folau – only just, I should stress – because of his ability to seemingly beat his man every time he gets the ball in his hand. He’s such an exciting player and like Leigh he is one of the best under the high ball.
“It’s a toss of a coin for me… and it’s come down in Folau’s favour.”
Winger: Stuart Hogg (Scotland)
Owens said: “How can you fail to be impressed when watching Hogg play. He’s so exciting as he burst into that line and, of course, was named Six Nations player of the tournament.
“I know he’s a full-back for Scotland, but he is so quick and direct he could easily play on the wing. He reminds me a bit of Shane Williams with some of the things he does.
“When you see who is on the other wing in my team, you’ll see how they would work brilliantly in tandem.”
Outside-centre: Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland)
Owens said: “Not only is he one of the greatest centres in the history of rugby union but he’s a fantastic man off the field as well. O’Driscoll has been a wonderful ambassador for the sport and a real leader. He always respected referees and set the right example for others to follow.
“A legend of the game who conducted himself superbly, on and off the pitch.”
Inside-centre: Ma’a Nonu (New Zealand)
Owens said: “He’s another brilliant player and after every game, win or lose, he would come up and give me a hug. Ma’a has always found time at after-match functions or at breakfast if we’ve been staying at the same hotel to come over and have a chat.
“What a player, mind, too. One of the stalwarts of the New Zealand side for so many years.”
Winger: Shane Williams (Wales)
Owens said: “When people ask me who is the best player I have refereed it’s pretty much an impossible task to pick one because I’ve been lucky enough to take charge of so many greats.
“But if I’m pushed, I would pick Shane for what he achieved after coming from football at 17 or 18 years of age.
“He was in the mould of Gerald Davies in how he left defenders gasping for air as he beat them with those dazzling sidesteps. Nobody would fancy defending against a back three of Shane, Hogg and Folau, I can tell you that.”
