Rugby club Sevenoaks supports former player before England’s World Cup semi-final

As they play South Africa in the semi-final, Sevenoaks Rugby Club is supporting their former player and England World Cup star Ben Earl.

The 25-year-old joined Saracens in 2016 as a flanker after going through their academy, and he helped the team win the Premiership this year.

Adam Bowman, the coach at his academy, told ITV Meridian that “he had that edge to him as he came through.”

“I’m not surprised at all that he’s doing so well; he was a real competitor who had a strong desire to play rugby professionally.

“He’s one of the best players in the England squad at the moment.”

After attending Tonbridge School, Earl played rugby, cricket, and swimming competitively before deciding to pursue a degree in comparative literature.

Eddie Jones, the former England head coach, did not consider him a favorite, and he earned his first fifteen caps for his country as a substitute. However, he’s been a valuable addition to Steve Borthwick’s team; he will make his third straight start of the World Cup tonight against South Africa.

Hilary Everitt attended Ben’s play last weekend in England’s quarterfinal match against Fiji.

As I watched him in that amazing stadium, I felt incredibly proud. He was outstanding, and it was a difficult game.

“It’s sort of not a surprise, but equally you can’t expect quite that performance from one of your boys, it’s quite surreal really.”

It is the hope of Sevenoaks RFC that Ben’s World Cup exploits will motivate players of all ages within the club and inspire more people to take up rugby.

“It’s a grassroots community sports club – some people go on to do amazing things at international level – that’s not the majority,” stated Stephen Fitzmaurice, the club’s chairman.

“We want to recognise that talent that’s become an inspiration but we appreciate that we’re a grassroots club and where the grassroots of sport is strong, the sport itself is strong.”

Ben sent them a note earlier in the tournament to thank them for their support, and he frequently goes to watch his old club play.

“Every time we step on the pitch, we hear you, we feel you, and for that, we will always be grateful,” he stated.

Going down to the paddock on a gloomy, rainy Sunday morning and being served a hot dog or two along with a hot chocolate while watching England play is one of my favorite memories from Sevenoaks.

“Hope you’re enjoying the tournament… and I hope to see you all very soon.”