Daniel Bowden enjoyed a highly successful first season with London Irish playing in 31 out of the 32 games.

Bowden initially played majority of his rugby for London Irish at inside centre, before finding himself as the first choice fly half towards the end of the season. His solid defence and ambition in attack earned him the 'Players Player of the Year' of the award in his first season with the Exiles.

The 25-year-old arrived in Sunbury from Canterbury Crusaders in June 2010 at the close of the Super 14 season after having helped his side to a fourth place finish on the table.

Bowden, whose girlfriend Hayley is the captain of the New Zealand soccer team, has gained a reputation as one of New Zealand's most attack-minded emerging talents and is comfortable playing at inside centre or fly half.

Bowden made his Super 14 debut for Otago Highlanders against the Brisbane Reds in February 2008 after impressing for provincial side Northland. He joined the Crusaders for the most recent Super 14 series, setting the tone for a successful season with his new club from the off, with a sparkling debut at fly-half in a 45-6 win over the Cheetahs.

Born in Auckland, Bowden has played for New Zealand at Schools, U17, U19 and U21 levels.