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Rugby Union

Saints' Barnard joins Wasps

07/08/2007

Northampton Saints prop forward Pat Barnard has joined Wasps on a two-year deal ahead of the new season, which begins next month.

The South African-born front-row, who qualifies for England through his mother, joins after two seasons at Franklin's Gardens.

Barnard, 26, has played for England Saxons and was a member of the full senior squad during the 2007 Six Nations.

"I'm really delighted to be joining Wasps. It's great to be here and I'm very excited about the start of the season, about getting out and playing with this group of players," he said.

"This is a club who have done exceptionally well over recent years, and they have a winning culture. I want to be part of that, but I believe I can bring something to the party as well.

"I think the way Wasps play compliments the way I play, so I can't wait to get out there and get started.

"London Wasps' pack are one of the big reasons why they have been so successful, and I know that competition for a place in the starting line-up will be fierce.

"But I'm looking forward to that challenge and my aim, first and foremost, is to get that starting spot."

Wasps forwards coach Craig Dowd also hailed the arrival of Barnard, who he said would add to a highly-rated stable of props this season.

"His arrival means there will be some very healthy competition for places in the Wasps front row and let me make this clear: we have signed Pat as competition for Phil Vickery, not cover for him," he explained.

"That sort of competition is what we need to develop the front row at Wasps over the coming seasons.

"The likes of Leicester Tigers and Stade Francais have world class front rows, and with the players we now have on our books, we will be fast moving towards a similar position."

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