Philippe Sella was born in 1962-02-14.

Philippe joined Saracens in 1996 from French side Agen. He, along with Michael Lynagh, was the catalyst for Saracens as they made the transition into the professional era and his presence helped other players make up their minds about joining the up-and-coming club.

Philippe made a world record 111 appearances for France, a record recently beaten by Jason Leonard, and is one of the only players to have scored a try in every game during a Five Nations season.

Philippe was the lynch pin in the midfield where he operated alongside stalwart Steve Ravenscroft. His experience, pace and vision helped Saracens to become a potent force in 1998 and his appetite for defence was amazing.

Philippe scored the opening try in the Tetley’s Bitter Cup final in the same year, a trademark Sella finish. He showed pace, power and vision to run, swivel and crash over the line with his try then signalling the way for the floodgates to open.

He retired from rugby union later that year at the age of 36 and returned to France with his family.