Big names have added to buzz at Harlequins

Harlequins flyer Ross Chisholm reckons Lions star Jamie Roberts and the club’s other experienced new signings have transformed the outlook at the Stoop.
Conor O’Shea’s side are targeting a top-four Premiership finish and a repeat of their 2012 triumph – and in-form wing Chisholm is convinced they can deliver.
He told The Rugby Paper: “Every team sets out to win the Premiership and winning in 2012 was awesome for the club, so it would be great to repeat it.
“All the signings have been a breath of fresh air and you look at the experience of those guys – Jamie, Adam Jones, James Horwill and Tim Visser – and they’ve really boosted the squad, not just from a playing point of view but knowledge-wise.
“They’re great blokes off the field, as well, which is so important to building a team and a culture.
“I’m rooming with Jamie and he’s a legend of the game who’s really added something positive. With what he’s achieved he’d have every right to be the ‘big I am’, but he’s a really down-to-earth guy happy to share his knowledge.
“There’s a really good buzz around the squad this year and those guys have added to it.”
Chisholm, 25, one of four ex-Haywards Heath players in Quins’ squad alongside Joe Marler, Luke Wallace and his brother, James, is finally clear of injury problems and looks set for a run in the side with Visser out with a hamstring tear.
Two fine tries against Gloucester in Big Game 8 enabled Chisholm to stake a claim. He said: “From a personal point of view Twickenham was very special because I’ve had to be patient after knee injuries at the back end of last season and again in pre-season.
“It’s been frustrating but I’m delighted to have had a run of games and I want to keep pushing forward and let my playing do the talking.”
He added: “There’s obviously big competition, but it’s about putting my game on the pitch and helping the team to cement a top four place.”
NEALE HARVERY