'An impressive athlete': Wasps hand trialist a full-time deal

Financially troubled Wasps have unveiled their sixth signing ahead of their 2022/23 season, confirming that trialist Cam Dodson has successfully taken his chance to secure a deal at the Gallagher Premiership club.

The recently turned 26-year-old made 24 appearances during two seasons for Austin Gilgronis in Major League Rugby and he now joins Vincent Koch, John Ryan, Burger Odendall, Kiran McDonald and Will Haydon-Wood on the list of new arrival for the new campaign.

Wasps’ second row depth has been recently hit by the respective departures of James Gaskell and Vaea Fifita, while Elliott Stooke had a number of months to go yet before he returns to fill fitness following his leg injury towards the end of last season.

A club statement read: “Wasps are delighted to announce that lock Cam Dodson has signed. Dodson, who most recently played for Austin Gilgronis in Major League Rugby, linked up with the club at the start of pre-season on a trial.”

Wasps boss Blackett added: “Cam has shown great potential since he started training with us in June. Whilst Cam initially joined us on trial at the start of pre-season, it was clear he is an impressive athlete and someone we wanted to keep in the environment. We are delighted to welcome Cam to the squad and look forward to seeing him develop as a Wasps player.”

Dodson, who will also be on loan to Championship club Ampthill, added: “I’m really excited to have signed with Wasps ahead of the new campaign. We have had a really strong pre-season so I’m glad that I can put the practice into action and play my part next season. Coventry Building Society Arena is a special place and I’m looking forward to pulling on the shirt and running out in front of the fans.”

Wasps have been mired in speculation about their finances in recent months following the failure to repay a £35million bond debt that was due in May. They have also been at loggerheads with tenant football club Coventry City over the condition of the pitch at the CBS Arena following the staging of the Commonwealth Games Rugby 7s at the stadium.