'He's still one of my best mates' (From Bucks Free Press)

Billy's exit won't create a rift - Varndell

2:32pm Wednesday 16th January 2013 in Sport By Alan Feldberg

BILLY Vunipola won’t get the cold shoulder in the Wasps dressing after announcing his departure this week.

That is according to winger Tom Varndell, who crossed the divide when he came to Wasps from Leicester and says moving clubs is all part of professional sport.

He said: “I was disappointed and surprised. But I know it was a tough decision for him and I understand his reasons. Family ties are strong.

“There was a bit of good-natured banter around the training ground yesterday but it’s not really an issue.

“I’m close to Billy. He’s still one of my best mates and he always will be, no matter who he is playing for.”