'Best day of my life' – Tuilagi
England's backline have not escaped their share of criticism, but Leicester centre Manu Tuilagi enjoyed a sensational debut.
England's backline have not escaped their share of criticism in recent times- some justified, and perhaps some slightly harsh.
It was no coincidence therefore, that Leicester centre Manu Tuilagi's first appearance in an England jersey on Saturday was one of the more talked about debuts in recent times.
Standing at a strapping 6' 1″ and weighing some 100 kgs, Manu's pace, power and aggression is a mouth-watering diversion for England fans starved of world class centres since the retirement of Catt and Greenwood.
And the 20-year-old didn't disappoint, taking to international rugby like a duck to water as he enjoyed a sensational try-scoring debut.
“I absolutely loved it,” Manu told Planet Rugby, in an exclusive interview.
“To make your debut in front of 80,000 people was something I'll never forget, especially as two of my brothers, Freddie and Henry, were part of that crowd.
“In truth, I was buzzing, really buzzing.
“The management and senior players told me to savour every moment and really take it all in. Even then, the whole game went so fast I can hardly remember a thing, other than the try!”
Ah yes, the try.
There was something inevitable about the ebullient Tuilagi scoring on debut, but in truth, the try was as much down to Jonny Wilkinson's sharp work at ten as it was to Tuilagi's powerful and direct run.
“Jonny called the move as we approached their 22. I think he looked up, saw two big forwards on his openside, and managed to stand them both up and flick the inside ball to me coming back on the crash in the 12 channel, and the next thing I knew was 80,000 people screaming,” explained Tuilagi.
“I think my celebrations will earn me some stick from the boys, but I was so excited to score, and I was thrilled how the crowd reacted to me.
“I can honestly say- 'Try on Debut'- it's the best moment of my life.
'It was a very tough game, and one of the fastest of my career so far.
“We weren't surprised that Wales came back so well, and perhaps we were lucky to hang on in the end. They were very physical and I enjoyed my battle with their centres, who are both very big aggressive players.
“I always relish taking on the big guys, and both Roberts and Davies were a massive challenge to me, and I think we hit each other pretty hard throughout the game.
“Jonny was a huge help, as was Flutes (Riki Flutey). They kept talking to me all the time, calling the moves and making sure we kept our shape at the back, as we had not played together before.
“I grew up watching Jonny play and he truly is one of my rugby heroes, and the way he has helped me is amazing. I will always be grateful to him.”
Despite living in England for half of his tender 20 years, Tuilagi's family all have played for Samoa. Was this an issue for him? Was there any animosity?
“Not at all – quite the reverse,” he said.
“I spoke to all of my family in Samoa before the game. It was a really emotional long phone call, with all of my family taking it in turns to wish me well, and they told me I had all of their support.
“Henry (Tuilagi) said 'Be yourself. Play as you always do, that's why they've picked you. Don't try to do anything else other than be YOU!'.
“Those words really stayed with me and I kept thinking of them throughout the game. I think half of Samoa were watching in one way or another, and I know my folks had a little party back in Samoa during the game. That sort of support is incredible and I am both humble and thankful for it.
“It really was the best day of my life”.
By James While