Seb Atkinson handed first Six Nations start for England against Italy
Gloucester centre Seb Atkinson has been named in England’s starting line-up for the Six Nations match against Italy, marking his first start in the championship.
Record-breaking fitness levels
The 23-year-old enters the fray with a reputation as potentially the fittest player in professional rugby.
Atkinson reportedly holds the unofficial record for the ‘Bronco’ test, a gruelling endurance drill used to measure aerobic capacity.
He completed the series of shuttle runs in four minutes and eight seconds, surpassing a benchmark previously set by All Blacks star Beauden Barrett.
“I did it in four minutes and eight seconds,” Atkinson confirmed regarding his time.
“It’s a bit of an unregulated test, so it’s very unofficial.”
The Gloucester midfielder attributes his engine to a background in endurance sports before his physical growth spurt.
“Growing up, I did a lot of cross-country and a few triathlons. From U13s to U18s I was a relatively small player; I grew in size quite late. So I had to find other ways to impact the game.”
Seb Atkinson, England Centre
Borthwick rings the changes
Head coach Steve Borthwick has overhauled his backline as England attempt to recover from recent defeats by Scotland and Ireland.
Atkinson takes the number 12 shirt, replacing Fraser Dingwall, as the coaching staff looks to capitalise on his high work rate off the ball.
The selection offers a delayed opportunity for the former Worcester Warriors player to cement his place in the squad.
Atkinson impressed during the summer tour of Argentina, starting both tests, before injury setbacks disrupted his progress.
Overcoming injury setbacks
A combination of knee and hip issues struck at an inopportune moment ahead of the autumn campaign.
This untimely absence allowed rivals to stake their claim for the inside centre role while Atkinson recovered.
“I really enjoyed my year, culminating in Argentina,” Atkinson said.
“Getting my cap and having my parents there was an unbelievable feeling.”
“I really wanted to make the most of what I achieved out there by coming back and really nailing down my spot – but I got injured at the wrong time.”
Now fully fit, the centre is set to play a pivotal role as England look to finish their tournament on a high.
