Cassius Cleaves signs new contract with Harlequins

Harlequins is thrilled to confirm 21-year-old winger Cassius Cleaves has signed a contract extension with the Club.

The Academy graduate who began his rugby at Wimbledon College has represented England at Under-20 level, including the 2023 World Rugby U20 Championship, in which he demonstrated his remarkable speed and footwork.

Cleaves has developed his career through loan appearances with partner club London Scottish and Worthing, as well as five appearances in the Premiership Rugby Cup last season.

After an impressive pre-season and opening two rounds of the 2024/25 Gallagher Premiership that saw him make his league debut, Cleaves has been thwarted by injury but remains excited about the ‘long season ahead’ and cites his decision to re-sign as a ‘no brainer.’

Speaking on club channels, Cleaves said: “I’m very pleased to get it over the line. Harlequins is the place I want to be for the foreseeable – I’m delighted to extend my stay.

“I’ve been in the Academy for nearly 10 years now – I’ve grown up here. There’s a great group of boys at the Club and you can see the young blood coming through. The brand of rugby we play suits my game and how I want to play, so it was a no brainer for me to continue my time here.

“I put my head down in the off-season prior to coming back in - I felt good and explosive. I was unfortunate to pick up an injury, but I’m excited to get back. It’s a long season ahead.”

Head Coach, Danny Wilson added: “Cassius possesses raw talent in abundance, and we’ve all seen a glimpse of what he can do in a Harlequins shirt this season.

“Cassius has all the attributes to be an elite winger at Premiership level and beyond, which when combined with his diligent worth ethic makes him an exciting prospect for years to come.

“He’s been working hard behind-the-scenes with the Club’s medical staff to return to fitness and we’re looking forward to welcoming him back out on the pitch in the near future.”