The 20-year-old from Coventry already has U20 Six Nations and World Rugby U20 Championship titles under his belt, and is now set to be unleashed against Japan in this weekend's Autumn Nations Series match.
What was the U20s experience like for you?
We’re all still in the group chat talking to each other. Everyone stays in contact. That moment when you win [a title] is something you’re never going to forget, and I'm always going to cherish those memories.
How have you found going from U20s into playing in the Premiership?
I feel like they're a different type of games. The 20s is quicker and then when you get to the Prem, it’s a little slower but way more physical. You’ve got to step up to it.
What do you love about playing prop?
Just scrums in general, really, because I love a scrum! I played almost every position on the pitch growing up, but as I got bigger and stronger, my coaches thought they might as well stick me in the front row.
Coffee of choice?
I go for a mocha. I’m in my early stages of liking coffee, so I feel like I’m starting off with a mocha and slowly building into it.
Did it take much adapting when you moved up north to join Sale?
Not really. the West Midlands is pretty cold as well. I’d probably say people here are way more friendly than down south. I’m not too sure how factual that is, but that’s the feeling I get.
Who would play you in a biopic?
Will Smith.
What's your favourite film?
I like the Maze Runner series.
Which player do you wish you could have played with?
Jonah Lomu. One of the best. He would get you over the gain line. And if there's a player I'd like to test myself against, that would be Ox Nche, the loosehead for South Africa. I would like to give that one a go to see where I’m at, and how much more I need to develop.
Tell us something about yourself away from rugby.
I’m the youngest sibling out of four boys. One of my brothers, David, plays for Coventry; another plays a bit of footie and teaches; the eldest is an artist and owns a studio and he’s an artist. My mum drove us everywhere as kids, so I'm so grateful for her.
What's your sort of music?
I’m into the UK rap scene. One of my favourite artists is Dave.
Describe your perfect day off.
A big lie-in. A full English breakfast. And then if there’s no game on the weekend, a bit of padel, sauna, recovery stuff then chill. Play a bit of FIFA with the boys. Just chilling really.
What's on your bucket list?
I really want to go to Bali. A month would be nice, with a load of the boys. When I’m scrolling on TikTok and I’m seeing the scenery, it looks amazing.
Which teammate would you go backpacking with?
Tristan Woodman, who's in the Sale Sharks academy. We live together and he’s a good lad. He likes doing all the hard work so I would just sit back and relax and let him do all the planning and I'd follow along.
England v Australia, Saturday 9th November, 15:00, Allianz Stadium. Live on TNT Sports.
