Lock Greg Rawlinson has spoken of his pride at potentially clocking up a century of games for Worcester Warriors against Bristol Rugby- but admits only victory on Saturday afternoon will good enough on his milestone day.
Head Coach Richard Hill has revealed that second row giant Rawlinson has deservedly earned a call-up for the home clash and is now set to mark his 100th game in style as he leads from the front.
Former New Zealand international Rawlinson admits hitting the hundred will be a special occasion as he prepares for his final few games at Warriors before returning home.
“Playing 100 games was something that never crossed my mind when I joined,” he said. “I’ve never reached a century of games for any team I’ve played for in the past so it will be a proud moment for me.
“I didn’t realise until a few weeks ago that I had the chance to reach that many games so it is going to be a big occasion for me.
“I still remember my first game for Warriors against Sale Sharks when I came on as a replacement. It was under the lights at Sixways and was freezing cold! I had just arrived in the country so it was a little bit of a shock,” he laughed.
“It’s quite hard to believe that I have fitted in 100 since then – but it was been an awesome, awesome time.
“I do look back with pride at what I have contributed to the team. Obviously, with where we have gone the last few years, it is hard to be proud of being demoted from the Premiership.
“But I have always given 100 percent when I put the jersey on and I hope the fans can see that
“In terms of where we went, I came here with different ideas and unfortunately that didn’t work out. Now it is about putting that straight this year.”
Rawlinson revealed the trip to the capital to face Saracens at Wembley last season – when hundreds of Worcester fans packed out the stadium – remains one of his most cherished memories.
“Saracens at Wembley was special – it was also one game when, once again, we should have won,” he added. “I felt we had the better of them that day and you just knew that each player was up for it.
“Because of the length and intensity of the Premiership it is hard to be firing for every game. But that was one when you really felt every player was really on the edge and we had great backing.”
However, no game will be more important than this Saturday against Bristol Rugby and come 3pm Rawlinson will be focussed on nothing more than securing another key victory for the Warriors.
He said: “Saturday will be a special day and I hope I get a good reception from the fans.
“I’ve always enjoyed playing at home and playing in front of a packed out Sixways is a great experience. To do that a few more times would be awesome and I look forward to the game.
“What is important, though, is that I get my game head on and perform,” concluded Rawlinson.
“I didn’t know until a few weeks ago that I would reach the century, but looking at where we are at with the team all that is important is a win over Bristol.
“We know what we have got to achieve over the next few weeks and that will be at the forefront of my mind.”
Watch Sixways centurion Greg Rawlinson and the Warriors this Saturday against Bristol Rugby. Call the Warriors Box Office on 01905 454183 or click HERE to buy tickets online.