Sam Riley renews at the Stoop

Dynamic hooker Sam Riley has signed a new contract with Harlequins, committing his future to The Stoop.

The homegrown 89-appearance hooker has crossed the whitewash three times already this season, bagging a brace against Sale Sharks in the Gallagher PREM and adding another against RC Vannes in the EPCR Challenge Cup. His performances have earned him a place in the latest England A training squad for Friday night’s clash with an Argentina XV.

It is his latest chapter in a Harlequins story that began when Riley joined the club aged 15. He graduated into the Senior Academy ahead of the 2019/20 season, having captained the club at Under-18 level and represented England at Under-16 and Under-18 before stepping up to the England Under-20s.

Riley made his debut against Exeter in the PREM Rugby Cup in 2019/20, and his Gallagher PREM debut against the formerly named Newcastle Falcons in the opening fixture of the 2021/22 season.

A powerful ball carrier and accurate lineout operator, Riley has been on the England A radar before. His form earned him a call-up in 2024, when he marked his appearance against Portugal with a try at Welford Road.

“I’m really excited – I’ve been at the Club since I was 15 years old and I’ve really enjoyed it, especially the last couple of years,” said Riley.

“I believe we now have a good coaching set-up in place, good players in the squad and youngsters coming through. It’s shaping up to be an exciting couple of years ahead, so it was an easy decision for me.

On his ambitions for the squad, Riley added: “I think the sky is the limit, we want to win. In my early years we won the PREM in 2021, and it was so great to see the celebrations and camaraderie it brought to the group. Plus, what it meant to the fans – we really appreciate them and their support.”

Jason Gilmore, Head Coach, said: “Sam is a dynamic ball carrier and accurate lineout operator, he’s been in good form through the first block of the season and getting recognised with England A selection is thoroughly deserved.

“He’s a product of our Academy and fast approaching 100 appearances for his boyhood club having become an important member of our squad. He’s continuing to mature off the pitch in his role within the wider group as well as in his performances on it.

“We’re pleased he has committed his future to the Club, and we are looking forward to seeing him develop even further in a Harlequins jersey.