26 Dec 2018

Jimmy Gopperth staying at Wasps

5:44 am on 26 December 2018

The former Hurricanes and Blues first five Jimmy Gopperth is extending his stay at English rugby club Wasps.

Wasps first-five Jimmy Gopperth.

Wasps first-five Jimmy Gopperth. Photo: PHOTOSPORT

The 35 year old, who joined Wasps, is one of five players to have signed new, undisclosed-length contracts.

Gopperth, who left New Zealand in 2009, was initially ruled out for the season with an anterior cruciate ligament injury in August.

But he is now expected to make it back before the season ends in May.

Wasps are fourth in the Premiership table following last weekend's 24-14 loss at home to Bath.

After their fourth league defeat in five games, they now trail third-placed Gloucester by eight points- and are only eight points off the bottom in this season's tightly contested table.

Gopperth has amassed 771 points, largely with his kicking, in 78 appearances, since arriving from Newcastle in 2015, and won the Premiership Golden Boot in 2016-17.

Wasps Director of Rugby Dai Young said: "Jimmy has been a remarkable performer for us over the last few seasons.

"It's been frustrating that we haven't been able to see him on the field this season but we can't wait to have him back and we're delighted he's signed a new deal.

"He brings a wealth of experience to the table and that is of huge benefit to some of the young guys coming through in the backline."

Gopperth added: "It's been an amazing three years at the Club and I've made so many lifelong friends around the place. It's become a home away from home for me.

"I still feel like I have an awful lot to offer the game. I want to help us drive forwards and push for more honours in the coming years.

"This season has been frustrating because of injury but I'm working hard to get back ahead of schedule as I just can't wait to get back out there at the Ricoh."

-BBC/Wasps