LONDON IRISH WING
Ollie Hassell-Collins insists the impending arrival of All Blacks star Waisake Naholo will serve to inspire rather than hinder his career as he aims to make an impact at London Irish.
A product of Newbury RFC’s impressive youth section, 20-year-old Hassell-Collins was snapped up by Irish at 16 and has spent the last four years working his way through their system.
After making his first team debut at home to Cornish Pirates last October, the powerfully built wing represented England U20s during the Six Nations but was overlooked for the initial Junior World Cup squad, only to be called up as a late replacement for the injured Aaron Reed.
“I was surprised to get the call,” says Hassell-Collins. “I was disappointed not to make the initial World Cup squad but knew I was on standby, so I was thrilled to get the email on my way back from a few days in Cornwall and was on a plane to Argentina the next day.
“I’ve learned a lot from being in the England U18s and 20s programme and it’s been a good year for me, with making my London Irish debut and playing quite a few games. There’s massive excitement around the club now we’re back in the Premiership and although it will be a big step up, I’ll be looking to stake a claim and there should be quite a few opportunities.”
While Naholo and Ben Loader will provide barriers to a first team place, Hassell-Collins is undeterred and the retirement of Topsy Ojo potentially frees up space.
“Topsy’s probably been my biggest mentor, along with Greig Tonks and Tommy Bell, and he’s such a good guy to look up to,” Hassell- Collins explained. “He’s a legend around the club who plays the game the right way and is brilliant to talk to and just be around to learn from.
“I’m probably a slightly bigger, more powerful winger who’s more likely to run through people than he is, but I’ve learned a hell of a lot from Topsy about footwork and skill and I’m hoping that will stand me in good stead when I return and get stuck into pre-season training.
“We’ve got some big signings coming in, including Naholo, so there’ll be more competition, but that’s a good thing. I’ll be looking forward to seeing what he brings and hopefully learn some new stuff, but at the same time I’ll be looking to lay down a strong marker as well.
“With us having the Premiership Cup, Challenge Cup and Premiership Shield to look forward to, there’ll be loads of opportunities to show the coaches what I can do.”
Hassell-Collins, who’s dad, Neil Collins, represented Newbury, Harlequins and England Counties, certainly does not lack confidence. He added: “I’ve managed to work my way towards Irish’s first team and there’s a new outlook at the club under Declan Kidney and Les Kiss.
“It’s a big challenge in the Premiership but we’re hugely motivated to start the season well and, personally, I’m determined to take my chances and make an impact.”
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