Tom Curry has signed a two-year contract extension with Sale Sharks, with the club’s director of rugby, Alex Sanderson, describing the flanker as being in peak physical condition. Curry, 28, underwent hip surgery earlier this year and is currently exceeding medical expectations as he prepares to continue playing at a high level.
Sanderson emphasized Curry’s fitness, stating that he is "as fit and as fast as he has ever been." The new contract reflects both the player’s desire and the club’s confidence in his ability to contribute significantly over the next two seasons. Sanderson noted that Curry will continue to evaluate his physical wellbeing as the contract progresses to ensure he remains capable of meeting the demands of the Premiership.
The extension follows ongoing debates within English rugby regarding the availability of players who compete in overseas leagues, particularly France’s Top 14. Some, including Sale Sharks’ Courtney Lawes—who joined the club from Brive this summer—support the idea that England should continue to select players based abroad. However, Sanderson expressed opposition to this view, arguing that allowing England internationals to play outside the Premiership would "devastate" the domestic competition.
Sanderson maintains that restricting England selection to players within the Premiership helps preserve the value and competitiveness of the league. His remarks reflect a broader discussion within English rugby about balancing international team needs with the health and integrity of domestic competition.
