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Rugby Union

Sharks sink teeth into Chabal

18/12/2007

France back-row forward Sebastien Chabal has signed a two-year contract extension with Guinness Premiership side Sale Sharks.

The 30-year-old international has agreed a new deal with the club he signed for in 2004, which will keep him at Edgeley Park until at least 2010 with an option for a further year.

Chabal - nicknamed 'Seabass' - was director of rugby Philippe Saint Andre's first signing when he joined Sale three years ago and has established himself as a regular for both club and country.

"Seabass is a great player and is a fans' favourite too," said Saint Andre.

"He always gives his best and although he had received big money offers to go and play in France, he has committed his future to Sale Sharks.

"He will play a big part in the future of Sale Sharks and we are all delighted that he has signed a new deal."

Chabal himself said he was enjoying playing his rugby in England and was looking forward to continued success with the Sharks.

"I have enjoyed my time in England and am able to get on with playing rugby which I enjoy," he explained.

"If I lived and played in France, I think my wife would go crazy with all the supporter attention I receive there."

Chabal helped France reach the semi-finals of the 2007 Rugby World Cup earlier this year and established himself as something of a talisman for rugby in his home country.

He came off the bench during the historic quarter-final victory over favourites New Zealand and again against England in the last four.