Sale Sharks Number 8 Josh Beaumont has been named in Eddie Jones’ first England squad.
Son of England legend Bill Beaumont, 6ft 6in Josh was rewarded with the call-up after two outstanding seasons in the Premiership.
23-year-old Beaumont made his debut against Montpellier in the Heineken Cup while still a student at Durham University.
He made a starting position his own last season with 26 appearances.
On Friday evening he will captain Sale for the first time in the European Challenge Cup game against Pau.
Beaumont said he was “delighted and proud” by the appointment, not only to represent Sale Sharks but also Salford and the North West.
He tweeted today that he “can’t wait for the challenges that lie ahead”.
Thanks for all the messages of support today! Such an honour to be named in the squad, can't wait for the challenges that lie ahead!
— Josh Beaumont (@JoshBeaumont1) January 13, 2016
Beaumont said: “As a child growing up it was a dream of mine to play for England but when I went to University I was focusing on a career outside rugby.
“But since Steve Diamond signed me and gave me my chance, playing for my country has become my ambition.”
He also praised his teammates for their impact on his game.
“Last season Nathan Hines taught me so much about the line-out and all the senior members of the squad like Jonathan Mills and Dan Braid have been a big influence.”
Director of Rugby Steve Diamond said, “”For the club, it’s fantastic.
“It dispels the fear that you need to leave Sharks to play for England.
“Josh has worked hard, and has come through the academy and is a credit to everything.
“I’ve always known he was going to make it, so we are really proud of him.”
