[4] In November 2008, the club suffered a crisis with 16 members of their 31-man senior squad either injured or unable to play due to international commitments.

As a result, Gaskell was one of five academy players drafted into the side to make their Premiership debut in a match against Worcester Warriors.

[11] Announced on 31 August, one such change was the appointment of Gaskell as club captain for the 2010/11 season ahead of Sale's international players such as Charlie Hodgson and Mark Cueto.

Brewer explained the decision, saying that "I know it will be a surprise to a lot of people thanks to James' age but, as far as what I'm looking for in a captain which is someone to take the club forward on this journey which we're about to embark on.

James might be only 20 but I think he's a lot older in terms of his experience and rugby knowledge and I think he'll be a real success for the team and I know the players are right behind him.

[2] Early in the season, Gaskell suffered an injury scare in a match against Saracens; it was feared he may have fractured his leg, however he was soon able to return to play for Sale.

[19] On 22 August 2022, it was confirmed that Gaskell had left Wasps to join Top League club, Toyota Industries Shuttles Aichi.