Varndell to lead Wasps influx

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Varndell will link up with Australia centre Steve Kefu and England prospect Dan Ward-Smith at Adams Park as Wasps seek to strengthen a squad that will soon be hit by four high-profile departures.

"I have great ambitions to play for England and when you look at the players that have come through Wasps into the England set up, you see just how much goes into developing them to their full potential," said the 23-year-old.

"Watching guys like Paul Sackey turn from great club men into one of the best in the international arena, you know that the set up at Wasps is world class."

Back row James Haskell and lock Tom Palmer are headed for Stade Francais, centre Riki Flutey for Brive and winger Tom Voyce for Gloucester.

Former Wallaby Kefu, who accumulated six caps for Australia between 2001 and 2003, joins from Castres where he has spent the last three years.

Ward-Smith replaces Haskell after deciding to leave relegation-bound Bristol.

The former Plymouth Albion back rower was included in England's 2007 Six Nations squad only to suffer a serious knee injury and has failed to force his way back into contention since.

"We are delighted with these three outstanding signings," said director of rugby Ian McGeechan. "Dan Ward-Smith one of the strongest back row carriers in the Premiership and a very high quality player who we are delighted to have join us.

"Tom Varndell is a very exciting signing for us. He's probably one of the most promising young wingers in the game and at just 23 we feel he will bring a lot. Steve Kefu provides us with the experience we want to replace Riki Flutey at 12."