James Haskell feared the worst for fallen giants Wasps as cash-strapped rugby union was branded its own worst enemy.
The two-time kings of Europe, like near neighbours and Premiership rivals Worcester, face a winding-up order over unpaid tax. The two Midlands clubs are on the brink of administration and with the top-flight elite collectively thought to be over £500million in debt, there is concern two or three others could follow.
Former England star Haskell enjoyed two spells at Wasps, winning the league and European Cup - and expressed shock at the club’s plight: "I hope it's not true, I hope there's a last-minute saviour to ride over the hill to take Wasps out of this trouble,” said the 77-times capped back row.
