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England starlet Joseph reflects on memorable summer Down Under




It’s been a memorable 2022 for versatile back Will Joseph – one in which he made his mark with London Irish and made his debut for England.

Joseph, 20, was called up to Eddie Jones’ touring squad as an apprentice and came on as a replacement as England beat Australia 17-25 at the Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane, to level the three-match series 1-1 in July.

“It was an incredible feeling to be called up to the squad,” Joseph said.

Will Joseph with England. The RFU Collection via Getty Images
Will Joseph with England. The RFU Collection via Getty Images

“I met up with Eddie (Jones) a few weeks before camp, we had coffee and he told me what I needed to improve on and what I do that impressed him.

“He told me he was looking at me but I didn’t think too much about it, I thought it was just a conversation.

“Then he called me into camp, I was very nervous and very excited, it was a great experience.

“When I found out I was going to Australia I was buzzing, I wasn’t expecting it.

“Being out there was incredible, there was so much learning, it was such a huge honour to make my debut.

“I went out onto the pitch with about two minutes left and I think we were about 10 points ahead, I was nervous and excited, I just wanted to get my hands on the ball.

“Luckily I did that – even though I got smashed!”

Will Joseph with England. The RFU Collection via Getty Images
Will Joseph with England. The RFU Collection via Getty Images

England sealed a historic series win the following week with a 17-21 success in Sydney – it was just the second time a touring England side have secured a series win Down Under.

“That was really special, not many people can say they’ve won a series in Australia, it was something I was really privileged to be a part of.”

Joseph’s older brother, Jonathan, has 54 England caps and 85 points to his name and was part of the 2017 British and Irish Lions squad.

“We spoke a lot, he’s done it all before,” Joseph said

“He told me to be myself, to enjoy and embrace it, and to learn as much as I can.”

Joseph returned to pre-season training with the Exiles last week ahead of Irish’s first pre-season fixture against Championship side Jersey Reds, which takes place this Saturday across the Channel in Stade Santander.

The Exiles Premiership season begins on September 10 with the visit of Worcester and Joseph, who signed a new contract in June, is confident Irish can build on a successful 2021/22 season that saw them qualify for the Champions Cup for the first time in over a decade.

“I’ve loved being part of this club, it’s such a privilege, I’ve signed a new contract and I’m here to stay.

“I’m excited to see where this club can go, we’ve got a good group of young players that are looking to push on and hopefully win this club some trophies.”

Joseph’s career has taken him from Brentford to Brisbane, the Stoop to Sydney – but it all started at Newbury’s Monks Lane, when he was just five-years-old.

“My journey started at Newbury, Mum took me when I was about four or five and I fell in love the day I got there.

“I played there until I was about 13, I’ve got very fond memories of that club, I really do, I still follow them now.

“I love that club.”

Now it’s Newbury’s turn to follow Joseph – one can’t help but feel that there’s even more to come.



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