TOBY Knight admitted it felt ‘surreal’ captaining England’s under 20 team to Six Nations success against Scotland.
Knight - who played for Westcliff Rugby Club in his youth - skippered England to a 41-24 victory at the Dam Health Stadium.
And the former Shoeburyness High School pupil was delighted to lead his country to glory.
“I’d have to say it’s one of the most surreal moments of my life and one I will definitely cherish,” said Knight.
“It’s one of those moments that you’d discuss, as a kid, to your parents, over the dinner table, but never think it was ever in close reach so it was brilliant.”
England struggled early on before fighting back to triumph. Knight played his part by bagging two tries and was pleased with how England fought back to win.
“It’s always difficult playing Scotland away from home and I think that pressure forced us to become our own worst enemy at times, with ill-discipline and skill errors,” said Knight.
“Despite that, we had put great emphasis on attitude all week and how we wanted to be a team that would instantly bounce back, when the momentum of the game wasn’t in our favour.
"But each game is a different project and our goal for this campaign is another Grand Slam.
Knight, who lines up at number eight, now plays his club rugby for Saracens.
But he will never forget the part Westcliff played in his career.
“I played all my rugby there from the age of about five to 16, “ said Knight.
“Westcliff had always felt like a second home for me, up until the point where I had to move away for sixth form.
“The individuals there couldn’t do more for me and still to this day continue to support every endeavour, which I will forever be grateful for.”
And Knight, who also attended West Leigh School still heads home at every possible opportunity.
“Southend will always be home," said Knight.
"Most of my family still live there, including my parents so, I visit every few weeks or so."
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