Willie Le Roux signs for Wasps

Wasps today confirmed that Springbok Willie Le Roux will join the club during the 2016/17 season from the Japanese side Canon Eagles.

“When we were looking to replace Charles Piutau, who is up there in the world’s top two or three international full backs, Willie was certainly in that level of international company," said Wasps’ Director of Rugby Dai Young.

“His attacking ability will fit perfectly into the way we want to play. He’s really safe under the high ball and also has a good kicking game, so he is a really exciting player to have in anyone’s team."

Le Roux said: “I’m really excited about the move to Wasps and I’m really looking forward to playing in the Aviva Premiership. The Super Rugby competition is a great one to play in but I’ve reached a point in my career where I want to experience new environments."

The 26-year-old fullback has won 37 caps for South Africa and was a World Player of the Year nominee in 2014, having also been voted SARPA Players’ Player of the Year in 2013.