Quins prop backs England

Harlequins and England prop Louis McCarthy-Scarsbrook believes England have what it takes to overcome Australia.

“I think some people were too quick to criticise England following the game against France; after all it was the first match that many of them had played together.

“When they come out against Australia on Saturday they’ll have a victory under their belts and another week of training together; I think people will be in for a surprise.”

England need a win against either Australia or New Zealand in the coming weeks to guarantee a place in the final at Elland Road on Saturday 14th November.

“The draw between Australia and New Zealand was great news for England, though I’m sure that the players won’t be thinking about it during the coming games.

“I was at the Stoop to watch Australia and New Zealand and it was an amazing game; fast, physical and brutal. The atmosphere at the ground was great, I was here with Rob Purdham and some of the other Harlequins boys and it was great to all watch a game of rugby together.”

McCarthy-Scarsbrook was called up to the England Elite Training squad earlier this year and was in the England training squad ahead of the 4 Nations. Although he played in England’s warm up game against Wales, he was not included in the final 4 Nations line-up.

“Of course it was disappointing not being selected to go further, especially as I thought I had a pretty good season. I went into the Wales game really fired up to prove what I could do and it was great to score that try.

“I’ll keep giving it my all and hopefully I’ll get my chance with England again.