18 June 2008
Toby Flood, who recently announced his signing to new club Leicester Tigers, took time out of the England team’s preparations for the second test of their summer tour to New Zealand in Christchurch to talk to rfu.com and ERSC about his elevation from outside the 22 for the first test to starting berth at fly-half for England on Saturday.
“I was told the news late on Monday and I was obviously delighted to get the nod from Rob Andrew and the coaches. It’s a hugely exciting prospect to face the All Blacks away from home and one of the biggest challenges I have faced in my career so far. I’m not bothered where I play as long as it’s in the backs and not at prop forward!
“I’ve got the responsibility of kicking on the day and it’s a part of my game I always practise hard on and it’s gone well this year. It has been a little windy since we got here to Christchurch but nothing that has caused any real problems in training and I have no issues.
Toby will be lining up against his opposite number, Daniel Carter and expressed his views on the All Blacks Number 10.
“It’s exciting to be facing a player of his ability. He is playing really well and this is a great opportunity to play against him. Daniel is such a dangerous player and can turn a game on its head but I’m looking forward to Saturday and playing against not just Daniel but all the All Blacks.
Asked if it was his childhood ambition to play for England Toby, who has now won 17 caps for his country said;
“When I was growing up I always wanted to pull on the white shirt of England. My family have all been very supportive throughout my career but I must see my Mum when I get back and clear out all my kit, which I give to her each time I see her. My old bedroom floor is creaking and you can’t even see the carpet anymore because it’s got so much stuff on it so I’m thinking about using the kit as a fund raiser for some of my old local rugby clubs. Mum has also got my first England cap. She made sure she got that and I’m happy that she is looking after it for me.”
