Alex Dombrandt returns from injury today with his eyes on the prize of an England jersey with his name on it - literally.
The Harlequins No8 needs no added motivation after missing the tour to Australia with knee damage then pulling up lame in Quins’ opening game of the season.
But the Rugby Football Union provided one by announcing that, starting next Sunday against Argentina, Eddie Jones’ chosen few will wear personalised shirts.
“We think player names on shirts may have the potential to bring fans closer to the international stars of our game,” said RFU boss Bill Sweeney.
Dombrandt must add form to fitness before he gets his, given his summer absence allowed Billy Vunipola to leapfrog him in the pecking order and reclaim the No.8 jersey.
He begins the process on home turf this afternoon where he completes a century of Quins appearances in the Premiership clash with London Irish.
“I need to get back playing, rediscover the form of last season and keep improving my all-round game,” he admitted.
“I love to attack and have the ball in my hand. I guess that’s my point of difference. I need to keep adding to that area of my game to have bigger involvements in the game.”
On his last appearance at the Stoop the 25-year old eclipsed Vunipola before his hamstring went and he was forced off. Saracens ended up winning with Vunipola man of the match.
“It’s been a hugely frustrating start to the season,” he conceded. “I’m not a great watcher, I get frustrated when I’m unable to contribute.
“So I’m massively excited to get back in the mix and reaching 100 appearances is a very proud moment. It seems only yesterday I was a Quins fan watching the likes of Danny Care, Joe Marler and Chris Robshaw.
“For me 100 appearances really is a dream come true. I never thought I’d make my debut let alone reach this point.”
In his absence Vunipola and Sam Simmonds vied for No.8 selection in Jersey where Jones yesterday challenged his forwards to become 40 per cent fitter by the World Cup.
“Eddie had us running to and from the 22 (metre line) four times, up and down on each line, and we did six lots of reps,” said Mako Vunipola.
“The target for us is 10 sets by the World Cup. It’s not something I’m a fan of but it’s part of the job.”
Missing from Jersey were Courtney Lawes and Owen Farrell amid growing concern that one or both will be ruled out next week.
“Fingers crossed they come back in next week but it’s a tough one with concussion,” added Mako. “It’s about us adapting to that situation now.”
Wasps were last night formally suspended from the Premiership by English rugby chiefs, who confirmed their relegation to the Championship next season.
