Blackett gets the nod for top job at Wasps

WASPS have appointed interim boss Lee Blackett as their new head coach.

The 37-year-old has been in charge since director of rugby Dai Young's departure on February 18.

Blackett, who was previously attack and backs coach, guided Wasps to three wins in four games before the season was suspended because of coronavirus – including a 60-10 win over Saracens.

He will work alongside Pete Atkinson, who becomes head of performance, and new forwards coach Richard Blaze.

Atkinson is set to join the club after the conclusion of his contract with Italy, while Blaze has been working with England’s Women’s side.

“The last few months have been fantastic,” said Blackett.

“I’m really excited to have the chance to work with Pete and Richard as we prepare to get the team back playing again and hopefully deliver the success this club deserves.”

Wasps are currently fifth in the Premiership, two points behind the play-off places. They were 10th when Young left in February, bringing to an end his nine-year stint at the helm.

Premiership Rugby say they remain committed to “completing all games” in the 2019-2020 season.

“The intention is to play all games and complete the season as soon as it can be done safely,” said a statement.

Chief executive Darren Childs added: “We all remain committed to finding a way to play, so long as we can do this safely, and with the welfare of players, staff and fans at the heart of every decision.”

There are nine rounds of regular-season action remaining, with the Twickenham final originally planned for June 20.

But the clubs have announced an intention to finish all games if possible and rearranging the final, potentially by a number of months, with August mooted.

Premiership Rugby say they are in consultation with the RFU about rescheduling the final.

Other contingency plans include a makeshift cup competition to take place in the summer, if it is not possible to complete the season, while a decision on whether England’s July tour of Japan goes ahead will be made at the end of April.