02/05/2018

Jackson And Olding In Talks With Sale Sharks

Former Ulster players Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding are reportedly close to signing a deal with Sale Sharks.

Jackson and Olding had their contracts terminated by Ulster Rugby despite being found not guilty in a rape trial.

They had been accused of raping a woman in June 2016, however a jury found them unanimously not guilty.

The pair were criticised over aspects of their behaviour concerning sexually explicit WhatsApp conversations, with major sponsors of Ulster Rugby also having voiced their concerns.

At the time the IRFU and Ulster Rugby said in a statement: "Following a review, conducted in the aftermath of recent court proceedings, the Irish Rugby Football Union and Ulster Rugby have revoked the contracts of Patrick Jackson and Stuart Olding with immediate effect.

"In arriving at this decision, the Irish Rugby Football Union and Ulster Rugby acknowledge our responsibility and commitment to the core values of the game: Respect, Inclusivity and Integrity.

"It has been agreed, as part of this commitment, to conduct an in-depth review of existing structures and educational programmes, within the game in Ireland, to ensure the importance of these core values is clearly understood, supported and practised at every level of the game."

Aviva Premiership club Sale are reportedly close to agreeing a deal with Jackson and Olding.

Sale is expected to pay less than £200,000 to Jackson and similar terms are expected to be agreed with Olding.

(CD/MH)

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