Club profile: Wasps

All Black Craig Dowd (left) will shore up the front row

The loss of captain Lawrence Dallaglio who could miss the whole season while he recovers from knee surgery, is a colossal blow to the London club.

Nevertheless, Wasps still look well equipped to challenge in all competitions.

New Zealand All Blacks prop Craig Dowd has been signed from Auckland, with astute boss Nigel Melville also expecting much from his younger element, spearheaded by Joe Worsley, Josh Lewsey and Fraser Waters.

Melville has also wasted no time in strengthening his off-field staff, however, with Wasps welcoming the inspirational figure of Rugby League legend Shaun Edwards as defensive coach.

Runners-up in the Zurich Premiership last season, Wasps were one of the most consistent outfits in the competition and could build on that success this year.

They are certainly major contenders, but Dallaglio's injury and the loss of Rob Henderson to Munster, could also beckon a slight dip.

Facts and figures

Ground: Loftus Road
Coach: Nigel Melville
Captain: Mark Denney
Last season: 2nd.

Players in: Craig Dowd (Auckland), Rory Jenkins (Harlequins), Mike Friday (Harlequins), John Rudd (Bedford).

Players out: Rob Henderson (Munster), Andy Le Chevalier (Swansea).