Chris Bell

Born in Plymouth, Chris Bell started playing rugby at Ivybridge RFC, aged 6 and began his professional career at Harlequins in 2001.

A hard-hitting centre renowned for his defensive capabilities, Bell's first season at Wasps last year was cruelly halted with a ruptured Achilles injury in November - a huge frustration for both player and Club after he had made a superb start in the opening games.

Chris is the older brother of a recent London Wasps arrival Tommy and the two will be hoping to feature together plenty this season.

Prior to joining Wasps in 2011, Chris had spells with Leeds Carnegie, Harlequins and Sale Sharks - joining the Club from the latter where he had spent five seasons. The former Ivybridge Community College has represented England Saxons as well as England at U16, U18 and U21 level.

Away from rugby Chris is married with two children and is studying for a BSc in Business and Economics.

Follow Chris on Twitter @_ChrisBell