Flyer Robinson pays tribute to Sevens pathway

Welsh rugby's newest flying wing sensation, 19-year-old Harry Robinson, has paid tribute to the Sevens game for giving an added dimension to his career to date.

At 19 years old, Robinson is young enough to be representing his country at the IRB Junior World Championship but instead made his full national team debut, running in a superb early try to help Wales to a 30-21 victory over the Barbarians at the Millennium Stadium.

“It’s been pretty non-stop with the Sevens, Under 20s and seniors but I have to say the thing that has probably helped me the most was playing in the Sevens tournaments. Playing in Australia and Dubai on those stages at an international level has paid dividends to my game, and all credit to the Sevens for picking me to go," said Robinson.

The way Robinson took his try on debut - scorching across 50 metres of turf and diving over in the corner - was reminiscent of Shane Williams, who was himself making his final appearance on the international stage after 87 caps.

After making such an impact, the youngster has almost certainly played his last Sevens and junior rugby for Wales, but paid special tribute to the Sevens set-up under head coach Paul John.

“In Sevens, I know it’s a cliché, but there is no hiding place. Any little mistake you make, teams can capitalise on it like that. It teaches you that you can’t switch off.

“The quality of players the Sevens are producing is fantastic - players such as Alex Cuthbert and Lloyd Williams have come through. So Seven is paying dividends to the players in the 15s game as well, so it is a perfect pathway for boys coming through.”