Wasps make two signings, including ex-NFL player Alex Gray

Wasps have signed Alex Gray, the ex-NFL American footballer, and Hartpury out-half Tommy Mathews on short-term deals. It was early September when Bath confirmed that Gray had left them in the off-season after making just six appearances during his one-season stint at the Gallagher Premiership club.

It was last November when Stuart Hooper initially signed the former Atlanta Falcons tight-end, an ex-England 7s rugby player who previously featured for Yorkshire Carnegie, London Irish and Newcastle. Bath said last month: "Game time would have been limited for Gray during the forthcoming season. Everyone wishes Alex the very best of luck in his next challenge.”

That challenge will now be at Wasps, whom Gray is joining on trial. The 30-year-old former back-rower turned winger has made a career total of 31 Premiership appearances, while he also played with Marcus Watson, a current Wasps winger, with England 7s.

Mathews, meanwhile, joins Wasps on a short-term contract from Championship side Hartpury College. The 20-year-old fly-half was with Northampton Saints and featured for England U20s last season.

Wasps boss Lee Blackett said: “We are delighted to bring Alex and Tommy on board. They are both quality players and have already added to our group in training. We look forward to seeing them pull on shirt for the first time over the coming weeks. 

Gray added: “I'm really excited to get the opportunity to train and play with Wasps. I have enjoyed some great battles with Wasps over the years and I’m looking forward to having the Wasps players and fans on my side now.”

Mathews said: “I’d like to thank Hartpury for giving me the opportunity to join Wasps. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with Wasps so far and I can’t wait to keep contributing to the club as much as I can over the next few weeks.”