Randall getting ready to step into Laidlaw’s boots
DUAL-REGISTERED Hartpury College No.9 Harry Randall has credited the influence of Gloucester star Greig Laidlaw as his dream year continues.
Cherry & Whites tyro Randall, 18, featured in all five matches for England U20s as they captured the Junior World Cup in June – and his rich vein of form continued for the National One pacesetters in their sixgame winning start.
The scrum-half aims for a place in Gloucester’s Anglo-Welsh Cup squad, telling The Rugby Paper: “It’s been a big year for me and it’s been great to come back and play in a Hartpury side that’s doing so well.
“I’m doing a BTEC at Hartpury and played for their midweek side last year, so with training full-time with Gloucester and the close connection between the two, it made sense to carry on playing for them this season.
“It’s good to be playing senior men’s rugby and I’ve improved my kicking, which I needed to.
“I think my game-management has also been better and I’m louder and more dominant around the pitch.
“I’ve featured in Gloucester’s A-team and if I keep going well I might get a chance in the Anglo-Welsh Cup. That’s been a good pathway for young players in the past so I’m hoping to be involved in November.”
Last week’s news that Laidlaw will leave Gloucester for Clermont Auvergne at the end of this season could open a door for Randall.
However, he insists: “I’m disappointed he’s leaving. Greig’s been great for me to look up to.
“He’s helped hone my passing and kicking techniques and gives me a lot of helpful tips.”