GUNS JAMESHALLIWELL
BRISTOL PROP
James Halliwell hopes to be named in England’s U20s squad for this summer’s Junior World Cup after spending the season learning from Ellis Genge and Kyle Sinckler at Bristol Bears.
Having started his career as a fly-half and full-back before moving to No.8 and now finally tighthead, Halliwell has developed a strong allround game that sets him apart from other front row forwards.
He said: “A few years ago a prop would just be a really good scrummager but now that the game’s changed I’ve still got the skills of when I used to play No.8 and flyhalf as a child, so I’ve got a good eye for the game and can read plays which gives me an extra edge and means I’m not just someone that can scrum and hit hard.”
The former England U18s star, who was an uncapped member of the U20s Six Nations squad, signed professional terms with Bristol in July of last year and has enjoyed his first season in the fulltime environment.
“I’m loving doing it day to day, getting some rugby in and scrum training,” said Halliwell.
“I enjoy packing down with the likes of Jake Woolmore but I also must say that the food here is great as well and the facilities are insane. The gym is incredible and means there’s no excuses not to perform because they’ve got everything here, including a sauna and an ice bath.”
Halliwell, 20, spent time on loan at National Two West side Old Redcliffians making 14 appearances, scoring one try and shares that the move has provided him with useful experience and game time.
He added: “Even though I was very new to the club, they welcomed me in straightaway. I’ve been playing 60-80 minute games and enjoying it. They are a very community based club, so I’ve loved it there.”
The 6ft 3in, 19st 8lbs powerhouse has enjoyed training sessions with England international Genge and British and Irish Lion Sinckler, whose professionalism Halliwell describes as second to none.
He said: “Kyle Sinckler is very helpful as he’s my position and the level he’s got to means I can pick his brain quite a bit. Kyle is dedicated to the sport and he’s always doing extras after the session, so is the ultimate professional, along with Ellis Genge.
“Gengey has been huge to Bristol. As soon as he came in he was straightforward as he’s been here before and knew where we can take ourselves. He’s lifted the standards to another level and is a leader on and off the pitch. He’ll always pick up standards in meetings and pick up standards where they need to be picked up. On the pitch, he gives 100 per cent each time, so it gives other players a benchmark to follow so there’s not much room for slacking.”
Halliwell starred in the U18s Six Nations last year as England won all their games with Halliwell winning man of the match against Wales, but he has now turned his attention to this summer and the U20s World Cup in South Africa.
He said: “I loved the time out there in France and got really close to the guys we were with. This year I got brought into the England U20s training squad and I’m now hoping to get picked for the World Cup this summer in South Africa as that’s my main goal. I want to get a few caps under my belt and work hard on myself to get back stronger for the start of next season.”
BEN JAYCOCK