England international James Haskell calls rugby 'a pretty pathetic sport' as referees continue crackdown on high tackles

James Haskell of Wasps. Photo /Getty

England flanker James Haskell has claimed rugby is becoming a 'pretty pathetic sport' after he was penalised for a high tackle in his final home game for Wasps.

The 33-year-old, who is set to leave the Premiership club at the end of this season having failed to agree a new contract, came off the bench as Wasps secured a play-off berth with a 36-29 victory over Northampton Saints at the Ricoh Arena.

After the game Haskell revealed his frustration with referee Matthew Carley's decision to chalk-off a Wasps try for a high tackle in the build-up.

Speaking to BT Sport on the pitch after the match, Haskell said: "I'm pretty emotional about that last penalty, I don't know what's happened to rugby.

"It sounds like I'm fading out at the right time because it has becoming a bit of a pathetic sport at the moment I think."

England and Harlequins prop Joe Marler shared Haskell's disdain for the decision, calling it "utterly ridiculous".

Haskell missed England's opening two matches of this year's Six Nations championship after being given a four-week for a dangerous head-high tackle on Harlequins centre Jamie Roberts.

"Thank you so much to everyone at the Ricoh and those who sent me messages. Yesterday was sad in many ways, but also really positive," said Haskell in an Instagram post thanking fans for his warm reception at the Ricoh Arena.

"I have never had a reception like that, nor ever heard my name chanted. Mainly when someone shouts my name its because I am in trouble.

"I have loved my time at Wasps and look forward to finishing the season with the boys. Wasps has never been about location or stadium. Its been about the players and our great fans, new and old! I have been surrounded in the changing room by amazing characters from start to finish.

"I have laughed 100 times a day everyday for 17 years and couldn't not have wished for more. I still have a lot of rugby left in me, so whilst this is the full stop on one journey, a new chapter will start soon."

Wasps now face a trip to Newcastle Falcons on Saturday to decide the make ups of the semi final clashes.

Having played abroad for the Highlanders and Stade Francais in the past, Haskell could once again be forced to move overseas with no offer from a Premiership club on the table for next season.

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