Hape released

England fans will be devastated that London Irish have released 102 cap centre Shontayne "John Smith" Hape.

Hape, who has represented England at every age grade and schools level learned his trade at the prestigious Millfield School in Street, Somerset. Other notable players to attend this school are the great Gareth Edwards and current England captain Chris Robshaw.

Hape was recently quoted as being, "A mix of Gavin Henson on a good day, with the running skills of BOD and power of Scott Gibbs". Former England coach Clive Woodward said, "You cannot blame him for going to a higher paid job in France. He is coming towards the end of his career and we most not forget how much he has given club and country over the past 10 years".

Over the years some negative people in rugby circles have questioned his nationality, but this was all put to bed in a recent Daily Star article. His real name is Lawrence William Hapefield, but he decided to change his name aged 16, because of his hero former Kiwi centre Shontayne Smith who played rugby league for New Zealand in the 1980's.

I dont think Shontayne would be too impressed if you said he played for the Kiwis over 20 years ago.