Seb Atkinson Aims for Glory as England's New Centre in Six Nations Clash Against Italy
Seb Atkinson, the Gloucester centre, is set to make his Six Nations debut against Italy this weekend, and he has a compelling claim to be the fittest man in rugby union. Atkinson recently shattered the professional record for the grueling Bronco test, clocking in at four minutes and eight seconds, surpassing legends Beauden Barrett and Cam Roigard. At just 23 years old, Atkinson reflects on his journey, acknowledging his background in cross-country running and triathlons which have shaped his athletic prowess. Despite his late growth spurt, he has always focused on work-rate to impact the game effectively, a quality that Steve Borthwick values as he hands Atkinson the starting No 12 shirt. This selection comes after England's disappointing performances against Scotland and Ireland, as they aim to revive their campaign. Atkinson's earlier opportunities were hindered by injuries, but now he is determined to cement his place following a promising tour of Argentina last July. His unique skill set positions him as an all-rounder in an untested centre combination alongside Tommy Freeman. Atkinson emphasizes the importance of balancing skill with physicality, particularly against a robust Italy midfield. He has undergone a significant physical transformation, increasing his weight from 77kg to 97kg, which he credits to intensive gym work and nutrition. Having faced challenges at Worcester, Atkinson is grateful for the opportunity at Gloucester, recognizing the competitive nature of professional rugby. He expresses excitement about donning the England shirt in the prestigious Six Nations, underscoring the tournament's intensity and significance. As he prepares for the match, Atkinson is eager to leverage his experiences and seize this opportunity to shine on the international stage.
Source: The Independent Sport - 2026-03-03