Director of Rugby Mike Ruddock has hailed the contribution of Captain Fantastic Pat Sanderson as the back row star looks to make his 100th appearance for Worcester Warriors.
Former England international Sanderson is set to skipper the team against Bristol Rugby on Saturday at Sixways Stadium (kick-off 3pm) and also clock up his century of appearances for the club.
Talismanic back row Sanderson joined Warriors for the 2004/05 season and has been instrumental in ensuring the club has developed in the Guinness Premiership status ever since.
The back row star started every top-flight game in his first year with the club and was later nominated for the Zurich Player of the Season and the PRA Players’ Player of the Year.
An intelligent, skilful and hard-working player, Sanderson has continued to lead from the front at Sixways both on and off the field and is now set for his 100th club appearance.
“To have played 100 professional matches for one club is a fantastic achievement for any one player,” Ruddock.
“When you play 100 games with the intensity and physicality that Pat Sanderson displays every time he wears the jersey you realise just how big a feat this is.
“He is our Captain Fantastic and we look forward to Pat playing many more game for Warriors and a successful future with him as our captain.”
Sanderson said: “It’s always been a huge honour to play and captain the Warriors and it will be a special moment for me when I run out in front of the Sixways ground for my 100th game.
“I have enjoyed many special moments at Sixways and with the club. I have always had the fantastic support of the backroom team, all the players at the club and, crucially, our wonderful fans who have backed me throughout my time at Warriors.
“Obviously nothing would make a memorable day more special than celebrating with a crucial league win over Bristol and all the boys are fired up to achieve that come Saturday afternoon.”