Rich Browne and England Deaf Rugby take on Jamaican National Team

Thatcham’s Rich Browne was recently called up to play for the England Deaf Rugby team.

Browne was a key part of the side’s success last year, as they toured South Africa.

Last month they took on the Jamaican national team, who are not hearing impaired, at Grasshoppers Rugby Club just outside Hounslow.

The Jamaican squad were hoping to gain experience, and Browne’s team were able to provide a stern test.

Both sides struggled with the weather, as blustery conditions and pouring rain hit players head on.

Despite this, the match was a great advert for the sport, hard, physical and played in the right spirit.

England made a strong start, but would eventually lose 19-11.

They can take plenty of positives though, with foundations laid for their upcoming tests against Wales.

The Broadstreet Cup will see the side take on their Welsh counterparts in two test matches.

The away leg will be held at Newbridge RFC in Newport on 15 March, before a second leg at Blackheath F.C. in south-east London.

Browne will be hoping to shine again in the two tests, ready with his blue and red knee straps, a nod to Thatcham Rugby Club on the international stage.