Welsh legend Adam Jones extends Harlequins deal as old boy returns

Harlequins have retained the services of scrum and contact coach Adam Jones after the former Wales prop signed a contract extension.

Jones, who was capped 95 times by his country, joined Harlequins as a player in 2015, before moving into coaching in 2018 and has been a fixture of the coaching room since.

“I’m really pleased to be extending my time at Harlequins,” said the British and irish Lions international.

“This club has been a huge part of my life since I first came here as a player in 2015, and it’s been a natural home for my coaching career since.

“The club has built a strong group of coaches this summer, we’re always learning from each other, testing and pushing one another to be the best we can be.

“There is also an exciting group of forwards and front rowers coming through at the club, and I’m looking forward to being part of their progress as we continue building towards future success for Harlequins.”

With Matt Ferguson announced as England Women’s new scrum, contact and skills coach, Harlequins have appointed Joe Gray as their new lead transition coach.

Gray rejoins Harlequins full-time after three seasons at London Scottish, firstly as head coach and then Director of Rugby.

The former England hooker replaced Bryan Redpath as the Exiles’ DoR at the end of last season and will continue to help them out during the Autumn months while they look for a successor.

It is another homecoming for Gray, who made more than 170 appearances for Harlequins and was the first player to win every domestic trophy in English rugby.

Gray will succeed Ferguson in delivering the club’s transition strategy for players aged 18-23, working with the Academy and wider coaching group to bridge the gap to first team rugby.

“I’m really looking forward to joining Harlequins as Lead Transition Coach,” he said.

“It’s an area I’m hugely passionate about, and I’m excited to work with the next generation of players and help them develop towards making an impact at first team level.

“Harlequins is a club that means a huge amount to me, so to have the opportunity to come back in this role and play a part in the growth of the next group of players is something I’m really looking forward to.”