Up-and-coming Harlequins hooker Charlie Piper (East 2012-2014) said it was a dream come true as he became a world champion with England. Piper was part of the side who secured their third World Rugby under-20 Championship title in four years with a commanding 45-21 win over Ireland.
Piper, 20, came on as a replacement near the end of the final at the AJ Bell Stadium. He was called into the squad as injury cover for the final two games and also came off the bench in their semi-final victory over South Africa.
“To be involved in the semi-final and final was a fantastic opportunity for me to show what I am about and the level I am on for my age,” he said.l “It’s unbelievable to be in the England team and a dream come true to win it. You dream about playing in matches like that and at this level.”
Piper was on loan at National One side Rosslyn Park last season and Worthing Raiders the season before that, having signed at Quins in 2014.
“It was a great performance in the first half and we took it away from them in the second. Obviously you just want the team to do well, you are exciting to get off the bench, but do just want the team to win as we are a close group of players. It was a great experience, the crowd were amazing as was seeing my friends and family after the game. People have been watching at home as well and the support has been amazing, it’s been a whirlwind couple of weeks.
“I have had a great couple of years and it’s been a great opportunity to sign a new two-year contract. Hopefully, I can push on onto the first team squad. I am at Rosslyn Park on loan again next season and hopefully I can get a bit of game time again playing there and hopefully impress the coaches and push into the Harlequins team.”