Centurion Skinner out to join elite club

EVER since Harvey Skinner made his debut for Exeter eight years ago, players from the club have been capped in every position – except his own.

- PAUL REES

The 26-year-old outside-half is determined to rectify that having been close to making the England A squad last season with two matches scheduled this campaign against Australia and Ireland.

“I would like to play international rugby,” said Skinner, who started every match for Exeter in the Premiership and the Champions Cup last season. “That means playing well for my club and being part of a successful team.

“If you finish around the top two, it means the outside-half is doing something right. When you play a match in which your opposite number is involved with England it gives you the chance to put down a marker and say that you are there so keep a lookout.

“You have to get talked about and make it hard for them not to pick you. I know I was on England A’s radar earlier this year and that is my target this season. If you get into that environment, it gives you the chance to showcase what you can do and flourish.”