Scotland international Alex Grove has praised the ‘first rate’ form of midfield general Dale Rasmussen this season – as the race for starting spots in the centre heats up in the RFU Championship play-offs.
Grove is one of a number of players eager to claim a slot in the centre with Rasmussen, Alex Crockett, Rob Higgitt, Andy Short and Greg King also pushing for a starting jersey as Bristol arrive at Sixways this Saturday (kick-off 3pm).
The 23-year-old, who started the season on loan at Edinburgh before returning to Sixways after Christmas, admits the red-hot competition for places his now stronger than ever before during his time at Warriors.
And Grove believes that former Samoan international Rasmussen – who has already pledged his future to Warriors beyond this season – has been one of the standout performers this term.
“There is plenty of competition and you all want to be starting,” said Grove, who features in ‘The Warrior’ matchday programme this Saturday.
“All you can do is concentrate on your game and push your claims in training – then take the chance when it comes.
“You have to make the most of the opportunities because guys like Alex (Crockett) and Raz (Dale Rasmussen) are playing really well.
“Dale’s form this season is no surprise to me at all,” he added. “I have always rated him very, very highly and there has never been any doubt within the squad to just how important he is to us. He has been first rate.
“Raz is fitter than he has ever been and I’ve played a lot of rugby alongside him. You always know you are going to get go forward and defensively he is such a physical presence. It’s great to play outside him.”
Watch the battle for midfield jerseys intensify this Saturday afternoon as Worcester Warriors face Bristol Rugby at Sixways Stadium. Tickets are available now from the Warriors Box Office on 01905 454183 or by clicking HERE.