Reeves set to join Wasps

Ricky Reeves will join London Wasps next season from Bedford Blues.

The experienced prop joins the club on the back of an impressive season in the Championship during which he has helped Bedford reach the Final of the competition.

Lance Corporal Reeves, who is part of the 33 Engineer Regiment bomb disposal unit and has served with the British Army in Afghanistan, will be given a sabbatical period by the Army in order to play in the top-flight of English rugby with London Wasps.

Having previously played for Cambridge, the Army and Bedford, Reeves also made a number of appearances for Saracens this season in the Anglo-Welsh Cup and was part of the Army victory over the Navy recently at Twickenham.

London Wasps Director of Rugby Dai Young said: “Ricky is an experienced player who has been a key part of Bedford’s excellent season this year and is very keen to be given a chance in the Premiership. He will be a very useful addition to our squad and we are looking forward to seeing what he can do at the top level.”

Reeve’s Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Eldon Millar, said: “I am pleased to allow Lance Corporal Reeves this opportunity with Wasps. The qualities required of a Premiership Rugby player epitomise those built into a Royal Engineer Bomb Disposal and Search soldier - courage, discipline, respect and commitment. Reeves possesses these traits and hopefully they will develop further to the benefit of both parties.”