Gloucester: Simpson-Daniel heads quintet signing new contracts

Gloucester quintet Darren Dawidiuk, Shaun Knight, Charlie Sharples, Elliott Stooke and James Simpson-Daniel have all signed new contracts.

Former England winger Simpson-Daniel, 31, has made more than 250 appearances during 14 seasons at Kingsholm Stadium.

Hooker Dawidiuk is in his fifth season at the Premiership side while prop Knight came through the club's academy.

Winger Sharples has 47 tries from 108 competitive starts while lock Stooke, 20, scored on his Premiership debut.

"I'm delighted that all four of them have committed their futures to Gloucester Rugby," said director of rugby Nigel Davies.

"Charlie, Darren, James and Shaun have been a big part of the club's success in recent years and Elliott has a huge future in front of him.

"It's been a busy couple of months for us on top of the re-signings announced before Christmas and the arrivals next season of New Zealand prop John Afoa and Wales hooker Richard Hibbard.

"The players can see where the club is heading, and are excited to be a part of that going forward. Their commitment speaks volumes."

Davies continued: "Once again, it's a testimony to the hard work and commitment of everyone at the club. We're able to invest significantly in our team thanks to the backing of our board, the continued financial success of Gloucester Rugby and the significant investment made by our partners, sponsors and supporters."