Since making his Aviva Premiership debut against Exeter Chiefs three weeks ago, Rory Hutchinson has been introduced to senior Saints rugby in a baptism of fire that involved being a part of the starting line-up in European Champions Cup rugby just a two weeks after his first first team run-out.
The centre, who almost set a World Record for the most U20s Scotland caps in the summer, said that getting the late call into the starting fifteen against Exeter three weeks ago was brilliant but that he thought of it as just another job, not putting too much pressure on his first start.
“For some people playing on the bench and starting is a different mind-set going into the game," Hutchinson commented on this week's podcast.
“I found out about an hour before we came in that I was starting and you’ve got to get your head around it but at the end of the day you go out onto the pitch to do a job. Luckily it was a good day at the office against Exeter.”
Playing around the experience of the Saints backs, and the likes of fellow centre and Samoan international George Pisi, has been a huge help in improving his game, says Hutchinson.
“George [Pisi] is a massive help. He’s always there when we’re going through our drills or going through my games with me. He's always there to help me.
“He’s been a great role model and playing with him in my first game was great. He definitely showed me the ropes.
“It’s been good fun. It’s been nice to get a bit of game time, especially in the first team, I’ve been really enjoying it.”
Hutchinson’s recent European debut was a highlight for the 20-year-old despite the result and the young centre is looking forward to coming back to home soil and the Aviva Premiership to face Gloucester Rugby at Franklin's Gardens on Friday night.
“There’s definitely pros and cons from the weekend. To get the opportunity to be able to play was great, obviously the result wasn’t good for us but we’ve got a quick turn around now for Friday.
“Training has been good and sharp and we’re looking forward to going into this Friday Night game with a lot of confidence.
“I like to think I can bring something to the team but I’m happy to play anywhere for Northampton.”
