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There was noticeable tension amongst all the squad prior to the announcement of the final 30 names to head off to NZ. I had been in the original England squad of 45 for the last World Cup in 2007.
I survived the first cut and made it to the 36 man squad for the warm up matches but unfortunately I was one of the unlucky 6 to be let go right at the end. So, it was a great relief when I found out I was one of the final 30 this time round – although being presented individually on stage, dressed in your new No. 1’s, in front of the assembled 700 and TV cameras felt a bit strange – not something we are used to.
Tom Wood was the last name to be called out (list done alphabetically) by MC Martin Bayfield for his 20 seconds in the spotlight!
However, there was a noticeable dramatic pause – the boys had stolen Tom’s tie and this could have led to a trial and fines by our players’ court. Tom should have considered himself fortunate – the lads could have scuppered him completely if they had gone for some other item
of clothing!

The occasion also raised £39,000 for our three rugby charities with Greene King’s Dom South being most generous in the silent auction. I also had the chance to meet Jonny Kirkham and Simon Wright from
Greene King.

Cheers, Tom