Cowan-Dickie hasn't stopped smiling

Exeter hooker Luke Cowan-Dickie said he was shocked when he was included in England's touring squad for their trip to New Zealand.

Exeter hooker Luke Cowan-Dickie admits he was shocked when he was named in England's touring squad for their upcoming trip to New Zealand.

The 20-year-old, who has impressed for the Chiefs this season, has risen through the ranks at quite a pace and said he's loving every minute.

“It's been an amazing year for me,” said Junior World Championship winner Cowan-Dickie, speaking to Exeter's website ahead of the action.

“I can't quite believe some of the things I've done, but I know I want more of it and to do that I know I have to work hard.

“Getting the call-up for this tour is just awesome and I still can't quite believe it. It's slowly beginning to sink in now, especially knowing that I am on the plane to New Zealand, but it's a great feeling. I've not really stopped smiling since Stuart sat me down and said I would be going. Now I can't wait to get over there and experience it all.”

England play three Test, in Auckland (June 7), Dunedin (June 14) and Hamilton (June 21), with a clash with the Crusaders on June 17 making it four difficult matches. And hooker Cowan-Dickie, who is one of seven uncapped players, admits it will be a tough month.

“I don't think you can get a tougher tour than this,” he said.

“We know it's going to be tough over there, but as players you want to come up against the very best players and test yourself in environments that you're not used to. New Zealand, we all know, are the world champions, so it's going to be a real challenge, but it's one we are all looking forward to.”