Rising star Kerr sets his sights on England

A CONSEQUENCE of the financial strife Premiership clubs have found themselves in this decade has been a fixed focus on developing talent.

- PAUL REES

It is not only cost-effective at a time when a number of clubs are setting their playing budgets on what they can afford rather than the maximum allowed under the salary cap but breeds loyalty.

Sean Kerr is the latest to roll off the production line at Harlequins. An England Under-20 international last season, when they won the Six Nations and the Junior World Cup, he trained with the England A squad last November.

The 20-year old has been used by Quins this season in the Premiership Rugby Cup and has played for London Scottish on loan as he looks to emulate the likes of Marcus Smith, Cadan Murley and Oscar Beard at The Stoop.

“It is a good environment to be in,” said Kerr, who was born in South Africa and moved to England with his family when he was five. “The squad is strong with real depth and the coaches are excellent.

“I have worked a lot this season with Jason Gilmore (defence coach) and learned a lot from him. My preferred position is 12 but I have played a lot at 13 recently and the positions are a lot different.