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Joe Ward

WASPS star Joe Ward went from being a Kiwi abroad to an England international in about one minute.

The Wasps hooker has worn the All Black shirt at U19 and U21 level, but it took just a few seconds on the phone with England manager Martin Johnson to change the course of his international career.

He said: "I got a call from Martin Johnson a few days ago. I thought I was being stitched up at first.

"He asked me if I wanted to play for England. I said yep', he said fine', and that was about it. It was probably the shortest phone call I've ever had with a coach."

Ward, who has been called into the Saxons squad, was not caught completely on the hop though.

He and Rob Webber received some training from England's line out coaches during the back end of last season and the 28-year-old was left with the impression he was in contention.

He said: "I'm over the moon. I thought I might have a shot but it's a massive privilege, especially as I wasn't born here."

Ward was actually born in Hawke's Bay on New Zealand's North Island, and grew up in the same region as Wasps team-mate and now Elite player Riki Flutey.

They played schools rugby together and moved through the New Zealand representative squads together.

He said: "Myself and Riki came over to England at about the same time so we both qualify in a few months. Obviously Riki had a really good shot because he's had an amazing season, but we haven't really spoken about it.

"But I prefer to fly under the radar a bit and let the flash backs take the attention.

"It is pretty strange though, because we've played together from about 15 in New Zealand and now we're both playing for England.

"It would be quite bizarre if I ended up playing against the All Blacks one day, but it wouldn't phase me."

So instead of doing the Maori Haka to psyche himself up for matches, it will be God Save the Queen.

He said: "Phil Vickery asked me this morning if I'd sing the national anthem and I said I would.

"But I'll have to school myself up a bit first. I've got a rough idea of the words but I don't want to be seen mumbling something."

8:52am Friday 4th July 2008

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