England U20s will go into their Six Nations opener against Italy as defending grand slam champions. It’s a competition that England’s rising stars have much success in: six tournament wins since its inception in 2008.
This year will be different. Competition among sides will be greater; the increasing pool of talented players coming through at U20s level continues to have a far reaching impact in competitions at both club and international level.
The Eddie Jones Effect
England’s record in the competition places an expectation on young shoulders to constantly bring something new to their game. This year is no different and the ‘Eddie Jones effect’ has proved to be the standard that is encompassing English rugby at all levels.
Dino Lamb – England’s versatile back-rower who endured the devastating loss to New Zealand in last year’s World Championship – believes Eddie Jones’ coaching philosophy could be key to how England finish games.
A structure, new coaches Anthony Allen (Leicester Tigers), James Ponton (Newcastle Falcons) and Richard Blaze, have begun to adopt.
“One thing we’ve taken [from the training camp] is the way Eddie Jones is leading the squad at the moment.
“The whole intensity and fitness – being able to continuously put points on a side who just can’t keep up with you.
“We’ve been doing extra fitness and [working] under fatigue, not breaking down things as much. That’s a huge element that’s changed this year.
“We want to be different from last year. We want to better. A World Cup win would be massive – instead of coming second, we come first this time round.”
Lamb Pushing for Leadership Role
Lamb, who recently extended his contract at Harlequins, is enjoying a successful season at his club. A Premiership debut in September 2017 and a first senior try coming during the Anglo-Welsh campaign.
Experiences he is taking in to his second year at this age grade. Asked whether he sees the coming international season as an opportunity to develop his skills as a leader, the 19-year old is keen to improve further.
“I’d like to think so. Last year guys like Zach Mercer and Josh Caulfield were leading, so I’m trying to push myself this season. In this environment, [I want] to try and speak up more in group chats and meetings, that sort of thing.”
“I go to some of the younger lads and talk about things they’ve done really well and if any of them want a one-to-one chat. We were saying we’ve got to be a tight-knit group and really care when we’re out there.
“In that final couple of minutes, because we know each other really well, we want to work hard for each other.”
Lamb Relishing Six Nations Start
As much as Lamb wants to improve for the greater good of the squad, his individual preparation could take him from being a replacement to regular starter.
“I’m trying to add on a bit more weight and a few more kilos this time round – being physically stronger. I’ve had a few games now where I’ve been on the bench and played 10-20 minutes.
“Now I want to crack on and hopefully get a few games consistently.”
England kick off their Six Nations campaign with a trip to Italy on Friday 2 February. Given his breakthrough year, expect Lamb to fill the starting berth he craves to help his side get their campaign off to a winning start.
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The England Under 20’s team begin their 2018 Six Nations Championship schedule on February 2, at Stadio Enzo Bearzot against Italy.
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