Rugby

Sale Sharks 'to sign Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding'

 Paddy Jackson and Stuary Olding 
 Paddy Jackson and Stuary Olding   Paddy Jackson and Stuary Olding 

ENGLISH rugby club Sale Sharks are reportedly close to signing former Ulster players Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding.

The pair were sacked by Ulster last month after being acquitted of rape in a high-profile court trial.

Despite being found not guilty, Ulster Rugby and the IRFU announed Jackson and Olding were being dismissed over their conduct after lewd WhatsApp messages that were revealed during the trial.

The Daily Telegraph has reported that Sale, who are based in Greater Manchester and currently seventh in the Aviva Premiership, are close to agreeing deals with the pair.

Jackson (26) and Olding (25) were unanimously found not guilty of rape at Belfast Crown Court. Jackson was also acquitted of sexual assault.