LAWRENCE DALLAGLIO
The giant retires - by Jill Tipping

We will miss his chiselled profile and his agressive power on the pitch (I am convinced that Mr Incredible was modelled on you, Lawrence). I don't think the referees will miss our Lawrence though - matches will be far quieter without him. However, I think from Nick Easter's verbal performance as England Captain against the Barbarians today, Lol's replacement has already been confirmed.

Lawrence Bruno Nero Dallaglio was born on 10th August 1972 in Shepherd' Bush. He joined London Wasps in 1990 and played his debit match in 1993 against Quins. After a magnificent 19 years at Wasps he boasts 339 appearances and has scored 47 tries.

He has represented his country 85 times and was part of the 2003 World Cup Wining Squad. He recently was a big (and controversial at times) part of the 2007 World Cup team who surprised everyone (and most of all the English!!) by reaching the finals in Paris.

Lawrence says what he thinks and does not suffer fools gladly. He is a showman and is never lost for words - perfect for all those press conferences.

He has also been the bad boy of rugby at times and has appeared in the tabloids on a number of occassions - times that he would probably like to forget but I think it gives him character and a human side.

Lately, Lawrence has settled down to family life and is enjoying his three children.

Lawrence is a legend and players like Nick Easter, James Haskell and perhaps Leicester's Jordan Crane could not have a better role model (most of the time!).

So thank you Lawrence for the years of entertainment and glamour you have given us. Now we will no doubt see and hear you in occasions in the commentary box (perhaps you could hoist out the over excited Will Greenwood - bless).

It was a fitting final match for Lawrence this weekend - what a way to go out, as the captain of the team who has just won the Guinness Premiership Championship for 2008. His last match for his team after 18 years was played at Twickenham in front of 80,000 people ALL who stood and applauded him as he left the pitch during the second half.

An amazing man, and amazing career and an amazing role model. Good luck Lawrence from all of us at RFTG - xx

If you want to read more about Lawrence, Wasps have now got a fantastic new website with loads of pictures - click here to see more...