Rhys Webb: Player Spotlight - Joe Wright (Dubai)

Joe is a naturally gifted all-round sportsman, excelling in football, golf, and rugby. But it’s rugby where his ambition really shines. He’s hungry to push on, challenge himself, and achieve bigger and better things in the game.

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I’ve had the pleasure of working with Joe personally, both on the field and as a mentor. He’s already had valuable exposure, having trained with Exeter and the Ospreys, and he’s finishing school in Dubai this year with a couple of exciting university opportunities lined up.

Whoever secures Joe will be gaining a real asset on and off the pitch — a down-to-earth lad, a genuine team player, and a highly intelligent rugby mind who understands the game beyond his years.

Plenty of potential. Strong values. Big future.

Keep an eye out for Joe Wright.

Joe Wright: 2025 was a fantastic year both personally and as a collective. In November DESS was able to win the Dubai 7s, which is the largest rugby festival in the Middle East and to have been the captain and be able to lift the trophy is a fantastic memory which I will keep for the rest of my life.

In terms of taking my game to the next level I think just remaining consistent even when there are setbacks. Leading up to the Dubai 7s I pulled my hamstring right before the event started. Just making sure I did my rehab and keeping connected with my teammates through team trainings as well as doing private gym work helped improve my overall game.

JW: Looking to 2026 an area I am looking to improve is my kicking game and identifying the right times to play. This was a key focus in my game in the previous season but I think I further developing this to the highest level is a key aspect of playing as a fly-half.

JW: With university rugby looking to be the next step I think an environment with lots of competition and a good team culture where it is easy to mix in with new lads as where I will be able to push myself and thrive. As a player I want to be known as a composed and intelligent reader of the game with a strong passing and kicking ability.

JW: For me I look at the likes of Fin Smith. Despite his young age he shows great vision and a calm and collected mindset. This helping him become an established fly half in the premiership aswell as for England.

His defensive capabilities despite being a smaller player is a key inspiration for all fly halves and shows how no matter your size the heart and determination you put into the rugby you play is the most important aspect.