Joe Gray has no regrets about signing a new contract – despite the increased competition for the hooker's shirt at Harlequins.

Gray was one of six Quins players to pen new deals this this, along with fellow hookers Dave Ward and Rob Buchanan – as well as Tom Casson, Charlie Matthews and Ben Botica.

Having only recently returned from a five-month injury lay-off, Gray has been sharing hooking duties with Ward, who became the success stories of the season in his absence.

But with Buchanan also set to return from injury in the next few weeks – and with all three hookers having gained international recognition with England Saxons – competition will be intense.

Gray said: “We're all competitive here, and won't be easy to get that shirt back. I've known Dave since he was 18 or 19 at Northampton Saints, and he didn't get many chances when he first came here, but he has taken his opportunity with both hands this season.

“He is a different player to me in the loose – he likes to turn and run while I concentrate on the set piece and my defensive roles. Seeing people in your shirt makes you even more determined, but I've had that from Rob in the past, and Chris Brooker before that.

“All three of us are champing at the bit, but we have competition all over the park from players who have had international recognition – from Matt Hopper and George Lowe at outside centre to Karl Dickson and Danny Care at scrum half – it shows our strength in depth.”

Having been a Saxons regular before his injury, and played for the full midweek touring side in South Africa, Gray is keen to wear the red rose once more, but knows he has to win the battle for his Quins shirt first.

He added: “It was in the second game of the season that the ligaments went in my left knee. It was very frustrating as I'd had a great pre-season and felt good and ready to go. But it's the stage of the season now where other people are getting tired and I will be coming into it fresh.

“I want to be back in the mix with England too. Seeing Tom Youngs, who I toured South Africa with, come through has made me more determined, but it all starts with Quins.”