As the Midlands derby looms, with Leicester set to clash with Northampton Saints in the PREM playoff semi-final, Adam Radwan, a standout winger, reflects on his journey and the palpable 'hunger' for an England cap. Transitioning to Leicester has not only introduced him to the fierce rivalry dynamics but has significantly honed his rugby prowess. “All aspects of my game have grown massively,” Radwan notes, attributing much of his development to the enhanced coaching resources at Leicester compared to his previous stint at Newcastle.
Radwan candidly discusses the differences in coaching between his past and current clubs. “I’ve got nothing bad to say about any of the coaches I had at Newcastle, but they’re potentially understaffed a little bit. So I think the amount of time you get with one-on-one coaches and the amount of time they have to spend with each player [at Leicester], I ultimately benefited from hugely,” he explains. This shift in coaching intensity has evidently paid dividends, sharpening his skills and strategy on the field.
"It was brilliant to be back involved in that, and you get a little sniff there, it just makes you so hungry for more."
Radwan's aspirations extend beyond club success, eyeing a more permanent role within the England squad. Despite the lack of explicit communication from England coach Steve Borthwick about the upcoming Nations Championship squad, Radwan remains focused. “My number one priority is making sure whenever I put a Leicester shirt on, I play as best I possibly can. I think if I’m doing that consistently, opportunities will come off the back of that,” he asserts.
Parallel to Radwan's ambitions is Ollie Hassell-Collins, his teammate and fellow winger, who shares similar international aspirations. Their partnership on the field has been symbiotic, pushing each other to refine their game. “Honestly, we get on so well, like he’s an unbelievable player, and I’ve always known that. He’s helped me so much,” Radwan praises. From enhancing aerial skills to tactical plays, their collaboration is a testament to the power of teamwork.
Radwan admires Hassell-Collins' deceptive speed and robust play. “I’m probably faster, but he shifts. He’s deceptively quick. People don’t realize how quick he is, and he’s a big unit as well, so once he’s going, he is tough to stop. He’s got great feet as well, and a big fend. He’s a top player,” Radwan shares with a chuckle.
As Friday's game approaches, both Radwan and Hassell-Collins are primed to showcase their refined skills against Northampton Saints. Their readiness and mutual drive hint at a potentially explosive performance, promising a thrilling encounter for rugby fans.