Ward returns for Wasps A game friendly

Wasps’ hooker Joe Ward will make his return to the pitch this Saturday in Wasps A’s friendly against Blackheath

Following a long stint working with London Wasps physio team, Ward has made a full recovery from a pectoralis major avulsion sustained in Wasps’ Guinness Premiership clash with Northampton Saints on the 20th September.

Running out alongside fellow 1XV members Mark Robinson, Jeremy Staunton and Hugo Ellis, this game in keeping with the A League fashion, with allow supporters to enjoy a display of both experienced and up and coming Wasps talents.

With Academy players including Chris Bishay likely to feature, the value of an additional friendly game can be seen with young guns just like Bishay using the 2008/09 Guinness A League fixture list to pick up match time and fitness to help propel themselves into the senior selection arena.

Looking ahead to the game, Assistant Coach Leon Holden said, “We are delighted to see Joe Ward return to the pitch after a long period of hard work and rehabilitation. He has shown strong form in the league and in the A fixtures over the course of last season and the start of 2008/09 and I’m sure he’s chomping at the bit to get back out there.

"These games are important for us, as they allow our squad players valuable match time. In a club like Wasps where so many players are called to internationals, every member of the squad needs to be ready to step up to the plate and the A League and these friendlies ensure that our younger players have the chance to work on their game and be ready to take on the challenge of the 1XV.

"Blackheath are a good side and I think the competition will be high between both these sides – it should be a good game and a great warm up to Sunday’s action at Adams Park."

Saturday’s game is the second offering of rugby on offer at Blackheath, the game which kicks off at 4pm will follow the home sides EDF Energy National Trophy third round tie against Kendal, KO 2pm. Some faces amongst the opposition will also be familiar to Wasps supporters with Wasps Academy players, James Honeyben and Mark Odejobi, lining up for Blackheath – the club with which they are on loan – adding an extra dimension of competition to the outing!

Both games will be played at Rectory Field and tickets, priced at just £12, will allow entry to both games and include your match programme.

Parking for 600 cars is available on site and charged at £2 per car. For more information and directions click here.

The full team will be announced tomorrow, Saturday 13th December, ahead of the game!