Joe Simpson

Born in Sydney, Joe Simpson started playing rugby at St Benedict's School, Ealing and then became a member of the London Wasps Academy.

He joined the Academy in the summer of 2006 and developed rapidly, making his senior debut in October 2008. After some eye-catching appearances off the bench, and some top tries, he became first choice scrum-half by the end of 2008/09 and was promoted to the 1XV squad ahead of the 2009/10 season.

He was named the Wasps Supporters' Player of the Season for the following season having made such a huge impression throughout a tough year for the Club.

Injuries interrupted his season last year and Nic Berry became a more regular number 9 in the starting line-up and Joe will be hoping for a fully fit season ahead with competition fierce for the scrum-half spot. Joe has represented England at U19, Sevens and U20 level and in 2008 he was nominated for the 'IRB Young Player of the Year Award'.

Having played for England at Saxons level, he won his first full cap at the 2011 World Cup as a replacement, becoming only the second player to win his first cap for England in a Rugby World cup tournament.

Follow Joe on Twitter @joesimpson9