RFU keeping Haskell prisoner, say Stade Francais

(China Daily/Agencies)
Updated: 2010-03-06 08:05

LONDON - England flanker James Haskell is being kept prisoner by the Rugby Football Union which refuses to release him to play for his club this weekend, Stade Francais president Max Guazzini said on Thursday.

The French club has demanded the RFU release Haskell to play in a domestic Top 14 match against Toulouse on Saturday but the RFU insists it is not obliged to do so.

"I'm very sorry it has come to this. The RFU is keeping him prisoner," Guazzini told BBC Sport on Thursday. "Frankly, their attitude lacks respect."

England do not play again in the Six Nations until March 13 when they visit Scotland but say Haskell's contract states he will not be released during Elite Player Squad periods.

Stade Francais dispute he can't play for his club this weekend and Guazzini accused the RFU of putting pressure on the player who he claims is not honoring his contract.

"If he has an agreement (to stay with England), let him produce it. He's not respecting his contract but he's in a difficult position. He's under pressure from the RFU," Guazzini said.

"They are blackmailing him by saying, 'If you return, we will kick you out of the team.' This is incredible from people who always take cover behind the rules."

The RFU has a binding agreement with all English clubs but that agreement does not apply to French clubs.