Bailey gets Six Nations call up
Construction group Stonewood have been congratulating Bath Rugby star Orlando Bailey, who it sponsors, on his call-up to England’s Home Nations squad.
The 20-year-old fly-half, who was a key part of England Under-20s’ title-winning Six Nations campaign last season, joined the 36-strong national squad in Brighton on Monday for the tournament which kicks off against Scotland at Murrayfield on February 5.
Castle Combe-based Stonewood Group Chief Operating Officer Ben Lang said: “We are so pleased to see this recognition of one of Bath’s promising players, particularly because we’ve chosen to sponsor him this season.
“A major part of our ethos as a company is teamwork, supporting one another and supporting talent so that it can flourish and Orlando has personified that in the hard work he has put in to get this chance. We’ll be following his progress closely. We all send him our congratulations.”
The youngster, known to teammates as Landy, has been part of Bath’s academy since the age of 14 after cutting his teeth at Dorchester RFC.
Bath Academy coach Craig Lilley said of the University of Bath scholar’s selection: “Orlando is someone that has been in the pathway since the age of 13, so to see him get this opportunity is simply outstanding. He is one of the most diligent and hardworking players to have come through our pathway and is an excellent role model for our young players within the region.
“He has played consistently this season for the senior team and these experiences have no doubt accelerated his development.”
Bailey told the club earlier this season that he is constantly challenging himself to improve. “A huge goal of mine is to win the Premiership with Bath and become one of the best players in the Premiership,” he said.
“It will be a long old journey but I’m lucky to have a good support network around me to be able to express myself, follow that path and give everything to it.”
ELSEWHERE, Team Bath Dual Career student-athlete Grace Crompton scored a try in the final play to seal a 22-10 win for England Sevens as they beat Poland to finish seventh in Malaga. England had earlier lost 38-7 to Ireland.
On day two, England narrowly their quarter-final cup tie against the USA, having secured victory against Brazil before losing to Russia.
Compton also scored a tie in England’s opener against France, but couldn’t prevent a 33-17 defeat. Team Bath alumna Chantelle Miell was also in the squad.