News | Harlequins Rugby Union | Official Site : Clegg goes on loan to Leeds Carnegie

PREMIERSHIP RUGBY today announced an extension of their partnership with the UK's largest insurance company, Aviva, for a further three years.The contract extension, which starts in the 2014-15 season, will cover a golden era for club rugby in England and will include a period when the country will host a Rugby World Cup and when rugby union will finally rejoin the Olympic movement.

Denzel Boatey-Agyei, Nathan Thomas and Silas-Paul Johnson have all been selected for the Harlequins Elite Player Development Groups following recent performances during the National U15 tournament.

Mike Brown will play fullback for England as they take on the Barbarians on Sunday at Twickenham Stadium. Lining up on the opposition will be prop James Johnston who has been named in the Barbarians starting XV.

Recognising the importance of appropriate playing experience post-Christmas, it was decided that the 22-year-old England Saxons fly half needed to get regular game time if he is to continue to develop.

Following discussions with Leeds and the player, a loan move was agreed for the remainder of the current season. Harlequins will be able to request Clegg's return if circumstances require it and the clubs have also agreed certain times when he will be back with the London club's squad.

"If Rory is to continue to improve and develop as player, then it is important that he plays regularly and starts matches as often as possible," said Harlequins' Director of Rugby Conor O'Shea. "With Nick Evans' in good form and Ben Botica playing well, we are well resourced at fly half. The loan move to Leeds will benefit Rory in terms of regular game time and exposure to the experienced coaching and management of Sir Ian McGeechan and his colleagues."

Leeds Carnegie Head Coach Diccon Edwards added, "We are delighted to have brought Rory into our squad for the remainder of the season. Fly half is a position we have been looking to strengthen and adding a player of Rory's quality and experience will provide us with great competition for the number 10 shirt with Joe Ford."

Rory Clegg joined Harlequins from Newcastle Falcons in 2009 and has represented England at Under 16, 18, 20 and Saxons levels. He has made 53 senior appearances for the club.