Rugby World Cup winner Richard Hill says that he can’t wait for this year’s tournament to start, and the former Saracens back-row, capped 71-times by England, feels that the breakdown battle will prove crucial.

Hill was one third of England’s much-coveted Rugby World Cup 2003 winning back row, alongside Neil Back and Lawrence Dallaglio, and speaking in Exeter as part of the Trophy Tour, he expressed the importance of showcasing the trophy up and down the country and introducing the game to as many people as possible.

“The players will descend upon England very soon and they will be trying to win the trophy,” he said. “But we want as many people as we can to see the trophy and to get involved with the tournament. The more we can get involved the better, so to be a part of this brilliant tour is great and I hope that everyone feels part of it.

“The south west is a real hot bed for rugby – and it’s been great for the area to see the likes of Henry Slade, Jack Nowell and Luke Cowan-Dickie break into the senior squad. Sandy Park is hosting three great games and I’m sure that the locals will welcome their visitors, and get down to see the games themselves.”

Very impressive

On the tournament, Hill added: “The breakdown is of course a key part of the game. New Zealand are the champions and it’s an important part of the way they play. They have a number of players who are excellent in that area, with Richie McCaw at the forefront – his ability to steal the ball and retain possession is very impressive.

“Australia have a number of openside players who I’m sure will stand out. The likes of David Pocock and Michael Hooper are very good at what they do. Wales bring their own breakdown dilemma – Warburton and Tipuric are two outstanding opensides and England will need to make sure they are ahead of the ball and don’t let them near it.

“For England themselves, they have to keep the momentum going. They played well against Wales this Six Nations and they’ve got the understanding of how they can beat them. They’ll need to ram that home. There will be key battles all over the park in every game – it's going to be a hugely exciting tournament."

In his current role as the RFU’s Player Pathway Liaison Manager, Hill can see first-hand the talent coming through the English system, and says that it’s an incredibly rewarding position to be in.

Smile on their face

“When you finish playing there’s a void, but I have a huge passion for rugby and to work with young players is brilliant. To see how they develop and progress is great and very rewarding. They play with a smile on their face, and it’s important to nurture that as they continue on their rugby journey. “

His own journey with England kicked off as an effervescent 23-year-old. He was part of an England team that beat Scotland 41-13 at Twickenham, a memory he still holds dear.

“The jump between club and country was quite a big step up in 1997, but it was a surreal feeling. I remember being nervous and excited, and I had been given one role – keep the attacking threat of Gregor Townsend to a minimum. Untimely it was a great experience and of course a great result.”