VIDEO – Annett excited for Barbarians showdown

Warriors hooker Niall Annett believes fans are in for a treat when the Barbarians come to Sixways on Saturday 5 September.

The invitation-only team play a number of exhibition matches each year against international and domestic teams from around the world. 

And the forward thinks the game will be a real showcase of attacking rugby.

He explained: “The Barbarians bring a certain brand of rugby and a certain kind of mentality when they come and play and I think that’s fantastic.

“They bring a sense of the unknown because they can play such great rugby at times and they go out and enjoy themselves.

“There isn’t a huge amount of pressure on them so they can just go out and throw the ball around and play very entertaining and exciting rugby.”

Annett played for the Baa-Baas in their 59-26 victory against Leicester Tigers last autumn alongside the likes of Australian international Nick Cummins.

And the 24-year-old admits he has fond memories of the occasion.

He said: “It was a memorable evening for my family and I really enjoyed it. I was lucky enough to get drafted in last minute through a few connections Dean had.

“It was fantastic to go out there and play for such a prestigious and well-known side.”

Rugby World Cup winners Bakkies Botha and Ali Williams are part of a strong Barbarians outfit who will be coached by the experienced Carlos Spencer.

And Annett is expecting a tough game.

He added: “It’ll be nice to challenge ourselves against a few of those seasoned professionals and guys of such high quality. We’re looking forward to the game and seeing how we match up against them.

“They always entertain the crowd and hopefully the game here at Sixways won’t be any different.”
 
 
 
 


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