Tom Richardson relishes Stourbridge challenge

Former Bees and Worcester scrum half Tom Richardson is currently Stourbridge Saxons' longest serving player, and firmly established as a Stourton Park favourite.

During his five seasons with the club, the 31-year-old Cheltenham-based teacher has scored 35 tries, as well as winning England Counties' honours.

Despite this, he confesses to finding the current season his biggest ever challenge, due to the impact of the club's newly-established links with Worcester Warriors.

He says: "It's very different at Stourton this year, we have got a lot of talented youth, and I am pleased to say we are beginning to gel nicely.

"On the field, we are very well led by Ben Hughes, which is crucial because such a young side does need strong captaincy.

"We have got some outstanding talent, in players like Tom Jarvis, Charlie Hayter and Cameron Brown, and although people have said we are a bit lightweight, the forwards have already fronted up impressively against a couple of strong packs.

"Tony Windo is doing a brilliant job with the forwards. I am sure we will have tougher days when it is pouring with rain, and heavy under foot, but equally I am confident that our strength as a team will pull us through.

"With the pace we have all over the pitch, if we keep the ball, and stay patient, we take a lot of stopping."

For the first time in a few years, Richardson also faces competition for his no. 9 shirt with young Worcester Warriors pair Ollie Frost and Louis Silver also in the frame.

Although it took seven weeks for Director of Rugby Neil Mitchell to hand him a starting berth, he is relishing the challenge.

"Whilst you do your utmost to make the shirt your own, there is nothing better than competition," he says.

"As a senior player, you want to help those around you, and I believe Frostie and Louis have huge potential.

"This is a good challenge for them and they will continue learning , whether they are playing with the Saxons or back at Worcester.

"That said, it is much easier to be out there playing than sat on the bench. I will take every chance I get, but either way I am really enjoying it."