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'My aim as captain is simple, to keep winning'
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| Raphael Ibanez |
FINDING a successor to Lawrence Dallaglio is an unenviable task in anyone's book; fortunately for the Wasps heirarchy, within their ranks they have one of the few men in world rugby who commands equal respect.
Raphael Ibanez has a cv to rival any player in the game.
The 35-year-old Frenchman is the most capped hooker in the history of rugby; he has been to three World Cups, captaining Les Bleus to a final and semi-final, and among his four Six Nations winners medals are two Grand Slams.
In total 98 French caps, 41 as captain, sets him apart from your run of the mill international rugby player and ensures his place among the greats.
Wasps director of rugby Ian McGeechan said: "When you've had somebody like Lawrence heading up the club for the past 12 years, you need somebody with experience to take it on from there.
"Raf is somebody who has been in the biggest games in world rugby.
"He's made a tremendous impact since he arrived at Wasps in 2005, both as a player and a person, and he is one of the most highly regarded players in the professional game who easily commands the respect of all those around him.
"What he's achieved, his character, and the way he operates is first class and there is no more deserved a man for the job."
Monday's announcement completes an incredible turnaround for Ibanez that began three summers ago when he signed from Saracens.
At that stage he was retired from international rugby and his enthusiasm at club level was also waning.
Wasps changed all that.
He said: "Sometimes as a player you need to think about what you want, whether you want to be regarded as a champion or just a player from the past.
"Three of four years ago I came to a stage in my career when I realised I could still offer more and there was no better place to do that than Wasps.
"I think it was destiny, but I like to think I forced my destiny as well."
Three trophies in as many years and a recall to the French side followed and a fine career that looked to be winding down has been transformed into a glorious one.
This season could well be his last, but this appointment means it won't end quietly - bridging the gap between Dallaglio and the coming era of Cipriani, Rees, Haskell and co carries a massive responsibility.
Ibanez said: "I've been priviliged in my career to captain many sides, including the French national team, but I think this year is going to be one of my biggest challenges.
"To me, Wasps is like a second family and when the coaching staff made the decision I
was very honoured.
"My first thought went to Lawrence because he's a unique player and character and nobody will replace him, ever.
"But it is with his support that I take this role."
Ibanez will put on the armband next Thursday, when Wasps begin their pre-season schedule at his hometown club in France, Dax.
He said: "It's going to be something very special for me and it's a great way for the team to start the season.
"It's a special rugby year, with a Lions tour at the end of it, and many of the young professionals here will be thinking of that.
"But my goal is to make sure they deliver here first. My aim as captain is very simple, to make sure we keep winning.
"I'm well aware that as a Frenchman my English may affect my message, but I thnk we'll be ok because at Wasps we don't talk too much, we prefer action."
8:15am Friday 8th August 2008
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