Sutton & Epsom RFC is gearing up for an exciting season with the addition of Alex Dombrandt, the Harlequins and England number 8, who will be taking on the role of Forwards Coach.
Dombrandt’s connection with Harlequins remains strong as he approaches a significant milestone, his 100th appearance for the team. His journey with Harlequins commenced in the 2018/19 season, and he immediately left his mark by scoring an impressive 11 tries in his debut season.
A Wales Under-20 international, Dombrandt boasts an exceptional skill set, characterized by his remarkable offloading abilities and powerful runs, qualities that have established him as one of the Premiership’s most formidable number 8s.
A graduate of Cardiff Metropolitan University, Dombrandt faced adversity in his career, contemplating leaving the sport after enduring two jaw injuries. However, his resilience prevailed, and during the 2017 U20 Six Nations, he showcased his prowess by scoring five tries for Wales.
Dombrandt’s debut season in elite rugby was nothing short of stellar, earning him a slew of accolades, including the prestigious adidas Supporter’s Player of the Season, voted for by Harlequins supporters, as well as the Player’s Player of the Season, as voted by the squad. He also earned a well-deserved place in the BT Sport Team of the Year. His exceptional performance in the 2018/19 season culminated in his selection for England’s Quilter Cup match against the Barbarians at Twickenham, where he contributed two tries. This remarkable performance earned him a coveted spot in Eddie Jones’ World Cup training camp.
The second season saw no drop in Dombrandt’s form as he reached the milestone of 50 appearances for the club against Saracens, concluding the season with an impressive 52 caps and 24 tries. The 2020/21 season witnessed a continuation of his excellence, with Dombrandt scoring 11 tries in 24 appearances for Harlequins. His contributions were instrumental in helping the club secure the Premiership title, including crucial scores in both the semi-final and final matches.
Dombrandt’s outstanding form in the quarters didn’t go unnoticed, leading to a Test call-up and his full England debut in a resounding 70-14 victory over Canada. To date, he has proudly accumulated seven caps, solidifying his status as a rising star in English rugby.
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NIGEL OWENS DREAM XV:
Fullback: Israel Folau (Australia)
Owens said: “For me, it’s nip and tuck between Halfpenny and Folau, next to nothing to choose between them. Leigh is brilliant because under the high ball and with his kicking at goal under pressure. He may not always break the line when running but puts his body on the line in defence and is a top-notch match-winner.
“But I go for Folau – only just, I should stress – because of his ability to seemingly beat his man every time he gets the ball in his hand. He’s such an exciting player and like Leigh he is one of the best under the high ball.
“It’s a toss of a coin for me… and it’s come down in Folau’s favour.”
Winger: Stuart Hogg (Scotland)
Owens said: “How can you fail to be impressed when watching Hogg play. He’s so exciting as he burst into that line and, of course, was named Six Nations player of the tournament.
“I know he’s a full-back for Scotland, but he is so quick and direct he could easily play on the wing. He reminds me a bit of Shane Williams with some of the things he does.
“When you see who is on the other wing in my team, you’ll see how they would work brilliantly in tandem.”
Outside-centre: Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland)
Owens said: “Not only is he one of the greatest centres in the history of rugby union but he’s a fantastic man off the field as well. O’Driscoll has been a wonderful ambassador for the sport and a real leader. He always respected referees and set the right example for others to follow.
“A legend of the game who conducted himself superbly, on and off the pitch.”
Inside-centre: Ma’a Nonu (New Zealand)
Owens said: “He’s another brilliant player and after every game, win or lose, he would come up and give me a hug. Ma’a has always found time at after-match functions or at breakfast if we’ve been staying at the same hotel to come over and have a chat.
“What a player, mind, too. One of the stalwarts of the New Zealand side for so many years.”
Winger: Shane Williams (Wales)
Owens said: “When people ask me who is the best player I have refereed it’s pretty much an impossible task to pick one because I’ve been lucky enough to take charge of so many greats.
“But if I’m pushed, I would pick Shane for what he achieved after coming from football at 17 or 18 years of age.
“He was in the mould of Gerald Davies in how he left defenders gasping for air as he beat them with those dazzling sidesteps. Nobody would fancy defending against a back three of Shane, Hogg and Folau, I can tell you that.”