Proud moment as University of Bath alumni Tom Dunn earns a deserved first England Rugby cap in Six Nations title decider

It was an emotional evening in Rome on Saturday as former University of Bath Rugby Club player Tom Dunn finally made his long-awaited senior England debut.

The hooker came off the bench in the closing stages of England’s 34-5 victory over Italy which, combined with France’s defeat of Ireland later that evening, secured the 2020 Guinness Six Nations title for the Roses.

A video of Dunn speaking to his family back home while proudly wearing his cap – England player number 1,417 – went viral afterwards and perfectly illustrated what playing for his country meant.

This is what it means to make your England debut. 😍

Congratulations @tomdunn92 | Cap 1417

⚠️ Warning: Tissues may be required. #GuinnessSixNations pic.twitter.com/xOCjce4CZ9

— England Rugby (@EnglandRugby) October 31, 2020

A first senior cap is just reward for Dunn, who had previously represented his country in the 2012-13 season with England Students while combining his fledgling rugby career with a Sports Performance degree at the University of Bath.

He made the switch from prop to hooker during that time too and has gone on to become a key member of Bath Rugby’s front row, with his excellent form this year earning Dunn a place on the six-person Premiership Rugby Player of the Season Award shortlist.

A member of the England training squad for the past three Six Nations and ahead of the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan, Dunn was an unused replacement in the Calcutta Cup victory over Scotland in February before finally earning that first cap on Saturday.

The student rugby programme at the University of Bath has helped a host of players develop into Premiership and international players while also gaining a top-class education – find out more by clicking here.