How Jamie George reflected on his 100th cap
Before winning his 100th England Test cap in the bonus-point win over Italy, England hooker Jamie George spoke of the immense gratitude he feels to have reached this landmark.
Reflecting on his career in the latest episode of O2 Inside Line: This Rose, George recalls the surge of emotion he experienced before his first international game and insists he feels the same way every time he pulls on an England shirt.
He said: “When I was first in the squad, I was desperate be involved – I wanted it so much. To be sat here now in this position is genuinely mind-blowing.
“I can remember the feeling of privilege and gratitude when I got one cap. I can hand on heart say I’ve never taken it for granted in the 99 that I’ve got so far.”
Watch the episode here...
George cites certain moments in his career as turning points for his professional development, like England’s 3-0 whitewash of Australia in 2016.
However, in terms of personal achievements, the 34-year-old finds it hard to look beyond his appointment as captain last year.
“Being made captain was a huge highlight for me, and something that I’m very proud of,” said George. “I loved every minute. There were huge challenges that came along with it, but I enjoyed them and felt ready for them.”
After returning to the squad from injury earlier this year, George says he is relishing being involved again and is ready to assume a new role within the group as Maro Itoje’s vice-captain.
He said: “I’m really enjoying being back in. My role has now changed, but Maro’s doing an unbelievable job and this vice-captaincy role is something that comes to me naturally.
“Being there for people and putting my arm around people, I think that’s more of a role that I play now.”
England were able to mark George’s century with a resounding win over Italy in the spring sunshine at Allianz Stadium, and George took to the pitch with his one-year-old daughter Lydia in his arms.
He says fatherhood has changed his perspective on rugby and spurred him on to keep improving.
“She's just brought so much joy and I don't think I've ever felt love like this,” he said. “She came at such a tough time for our family.
“She was born 10 days after my mum passed away and that was such a horrible time, but so much joy came from Lydia. Throughout the whole grieving process I've had the most incredible gift.
“When you’re going through tough times after losses, you see Lydia in the stands and feel like nothing else really matters. She doesn’t care if I win or lose, or if I play well or not.
“I think I’ve become a better player since becoming a dad. I’ve found a big drive within me that maybe wasn’t there before. For her to be there on Sunday was very special.”
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