Departing forward James Gaskell is looking to end the season on a high by helping to extend Sale Sharks’ current record-breaking run by beating London Irish on Saturday.
The Sharks have won their last five away games in the Aviva Premiership, the best streak ever on their travels, and have the chance to make it six this weekend.
However, Sale last won at the Madejski in 2006 and the former club captain is keen to finish his time with the team on a high before he joins London Wasps next season.
“This has been my best season here both personally and as a team and what we’ve done compared to last year is incredible and is a testament to the players and coaches,” he said.
“You look at the quality the club have brought and they have targeted players with a lot of experience who will push this squad to another level.
“So, although I won’t be here, I do think it’s exciting times for Sale going forward.”
Though Sale’s record at Irish is nothing to shout about, the London club have struggled at home this season – winning just three games.
And while the Sharks also suffered a 42-22 reverse at home to Leicester Tigers last weekend, which ended their top-four hopes, they are the in-form side away from the AJ Bell Stadium.
One player who will be hoping to put on a performance is fly-half Danny Cipriani as he tries to further his claim for a spot on England’s tour to New Zealand.
London Irish’s Australian star James O’Connor has backed his former teammate to make the cut, telling getreading.co.uk: “If I was picking the team he would definitely be involved.”
O’Connor is playing in his final game for the Exiles before joining Toulon next season and his fellow back Tom Homer is in agreement on Cipriani.
“I think Danny has been one of the form tens of the competition. He’s definitely defending this year, that’s for sure,” he said.
“He has put in some good hits and has one of the best boots in the competition.”
Image courtesy of Sale Sharks via Youtube with thanks
