Azam and Dickinson bring international experience to the front row

Gloucester have extended the contracts of front-row duo hooker Olivier Azam and loose-head prop Alasdair Dickinson.

Frenchman Azam, 34, who first joined Gloucester in 2000 and has had two spells at Kingsholm, is understood to have signed a 12-month extension.

Scotland's Dickinson, 25, is believed to have signed for two extra years.

"I couldn't be happier to get a new contract. There are quality props here and it'll be a battle for game time," Dickinson told BBC Gloucestershire.

Dickinson, who has won 13 Scottish caps, made 20 appearances last season and will compete with Nick Wood for a place.

He added: "As a prop scrummaging is something you have to work on to further your career.

"I've been at Gloucester for two years and I've improved night and day since I've come down here.

They will have a big part to play this season and their know how will be crucial Bryan Redpath

"Gloucester are renowned for having a very good pack and this year we have to show that we can dominate teams at scrum time."

Azam returned to Gloucester after a season-long spell at French side Montferrand in 2004 and has made close on 200 appearance for the club, as well as earning 10 French caps.

Head coach Bryan Redpath told the club website: "It's very good news. They've both been integral squad members over the past couple of seasons and will have a big part to play this season.

"They're both international calibre players with a huge amount of domestic and European experience. We've added a few young up and coming players to our front row resources this season so their know how will be crucial."

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