'It will be thrilling to play in the Classic'

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4: World Cup winner’s medal, three Lions caps, MBE, more than 50 appearances for his country, the list goes on.

When it comes to rugby credentials there is little that English flyer Josh Lewsey has not acquired in his career.

But his trip to Bermuda this week to play in the Rugby Classic will be another first for the ex-army officer and he is determined to enjoy the experience.

Lewsey told the Bermuda Sun: “I have never been to Bermuda before and I’m really looking forward to it.

“Playing in the Classic is something I have always wanted to do since watching it on television many years ago now.

“It is probably the best veteran competition about in the world so to get the chance to play in it is very exciting.

“When you play professional rugby it’s all about the performance and there’s always massive pressure on you every time you take the field.

“Sometimes you can forget to really enjoy the game and that is what I am really looking forward to about the Classic.

“It will be great to get to chat to these guys again, share a beer and enjoy the camaraderie that I first loved about rugby.

“It’ll be nice to throw the ball around and get on the pitch again but I want to enjoy the occasion and make the most of it.”

Lewsey, who played most of his club rugby for London Wasps retired from the professional game three years ago and these days works in the City.

Since then he has only played a few charity matches in the UK due to work commitments.

Great

He added: “I work in the city these days and am sat on my back side so I don’t have a lot of time to play the game any more. I’ll see how it goes once I’m on the pitch in Bermuda but I’m not in any great shape at the moment.

“The most important thing for me is enjoy the experience of playing rugby again and make the most of spending time with some great players from years gone by.

“I’m sure there will be plenty of good stories about the old days and there will be some good rugby along the way.”