Two Bishop Auckland RFC players have earned the opportunity of a lifetime after being selected in the England North Under-20s 23-man squad for this month’s divisional festivals.
Ben Hunt, Hooker, and fellow club stalwart James Holliday, Scrum Half, will represent England North in fixtures taking place on 13-14 June and 20-21 June, with strong performances potentially leading to selection for the prestigious England Under-20s national squad.
The achievement marks a proud moment for Bishop Auckland Rugby Club, with both players having progressed through the club’s age-grade pathway before making their mark in senior rugby.
Ben Hunt has been a part of the Bishop Auckland rugby family since joining the club at the age of 12. A powerful and dynamic hooker, Ben has consistently impressed coaches throughout his development and has gone on to represent the club’s senior 1st XV this season.
Alongside him, James Holliday’s journey is a shining example of the club’s commitment to nurturing young talent. Having first pulled on a Bishop Auckland shirt at just five years old, James has spent over a decade progressing through every age group before earning his place in the senior 1st XV this year.
Both players have also represented Durham County Under-20s during the current season, where their performances helped showcase their abilities on the representative stage and ultimately led to their England North selection.
The dual call-up is a significant achievement not only for Ben and James but also for everyone involved in youth rugby at Bishop Auckland RUFC. Their success highlights the strength of the club’s player development programme and demonstrates the opportunities available for young players coming through the ranks.
The clubs director of rugby, Steve Colwell, said:
“Everyone at Bishop Auckland RFC is immensely proud of Ben and James. They are outstanding young men who have shown tremendous dedication, commitment and work ethic throughout their rugby journeys. To see two homegrown players progress from our mini and junior sections into the England North Under-20s squad is a fantastic achievement and a testament to the support of their families, coaches and teammates over the years.
“Both players have represented the club with distinction this season in senior rugby and have earned this opportunity through their performances. We wish them every success in the upcoming festivals and hope they can take the next step towards England Under-20s selection.”
The entire Bishop Auckland RUFC community will be following Ben and James closely over the coming weeks as they look to impress on the regional stage and continue their journey towards international honours.
Everyone at Bishop Auckland RUFC congratulates Ben Hunt and James Holliday on their selection and wishes them the very best in the England North Under-20s divisional festivals.
Bishop Auckland's local community newspaper.
