Joe Simpson

A true cosmopolitan, Simpson was born in Australia to an English father and a New Zealand mother, both of whom were enthusiastic about rugby. Joe claims that they have helped him wholeheartedly in his career, as have former Wasps Academy coach Alun Powell, his former Richmond coach Mark Reilly and his old school coach Martin Knight.

Simpson first noticed his electric pace speed when he began winning races at school when he was only 6-years-old. He also had a keen interest in cricket and represented his school team as well as Ealing.

Joe joined the London Wasps Academy in the summer of 2006 from St Benedict's school. He made his senior debut in October 2008. After some eye-catching appearances off the bench, and some spectacular tries, he became first choice scrum half by the end of 2008/09 and was promoted to the 1XV squad ahead of 2009/10.

He continued his fine form at the start of that campaign before a serious shoulder injury suffered in the Christmas game against Harlequins, in which he scored a try, put him out of action for four months. He was soon back in action, though, and was rewarded with selection for England's 2010 summer tour. Sadly, he was forced to pull out after suffering a hamstring injury during a brief appearance as a replacement in the pre-tour match against the Barbarians at Twickenham

He has previously played for England at U19 and U20 levels and was shortlisted for the IRB Young Player of the Year award, after some outstanding displays in the England U20 side which reached the final of IRB Junior World Cup.

He has also played for the England Sevens team and was Man of the Match in his Saxons debut in 2009.