Raphael Ibanez

Joining in the summer of 2005 as the club's most high profile signing of the close season, Raphael Ibanez enjoyed a remarkable rennaissance on his arrival at Wasps.

Having lead France to a World Cup final in 1999, Raf went on to win over 70 caps and two Grand Slams to add to his World Cup runners up medal before retiring from international rugby in 2003.

However, having impressed with his work ethic and strong early performances for Wasps, Raf found himself once again in the French squad for the Autumn internationals, and went on to be part of the Grand Slam winning Les Bleus side of 2006, recently celebrating his 80th cap against South Africa in June.

For Wasps he has been outstanding, bringing guile, experience and edge to the front row, winning a Man of the Match Award for his performance in Wasps' victory over Llanelli in the Heineken Cup and scoring six tries in his 23 appearances of 2005-6.

Having enjoyed a second spell as captain of France in their autumn tests against New Zealand, Raf will be hoping to feature in this year's Six Nations tournament after being named in the 2007 32 man squad.