Lima Sopoaga offers flair in the midfield

Lima Sopoaga could turn out to be the gift that just keeps on giving this year after his move to Wasps from the Highlanders.

He was named NZ Super Rugby Player of the Year in 2015 when he guided the Highlanders to their single championship win to date, and despite missing a period of the 2017 season with a shoulder injury, racked up some good points. Last season, he sat in the top bracket for fly-halves in the competition, putting in some great performances, most notably against the Reds and the Brumbies.

The Wasps faithful will be hoping he can bring the same attacking intent to their backline in the coming season, and with such quality outside him, it's hard not to see him tallying some good assists over the course of the year. Indeed he brings a well rounded attacking game to Wasps, with his statistics from last season combining to produce a great score. While none of his attributes stand above his counterparts, he benefits from the sum of all of his skills.

With the addition of both Brad Shields and the returning Nizaam Carr to the Wasps forwards, he finds himself behind a strong pack that will give him plenty of front foot ball. From there, and as he has proven over the years, his mercurial talent will unlock the defences and release the quality of the Wasps back line.

As a fantasy coach, his addition should excite all, but more importantly opens the door for greater selection of those outside him. What's for sure, is that the Premiership has gained a player who has the potential to light up the competition.

Filed under: Gallagher Premiership, The Scout
Written by: Edward Kerr
Follow: @edwardrkerr · @therugbymag