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Denny Solomona admits his first appearance in an England shirt was the “best and worst” debut of his career.
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Solomona came off the bench in Argentina on Saturday and, after being at fault for two tries within three minutes of his introduction, touched down for the winning score in a 38-34 victory over the Pumas.
“It’s unreal,” said New Zealand-born Solomona, who only made the switch from rugby league to union late last year. “I think that is the best and worst debut I have had in my life!
“It is definitely different, a lot more intense than I thought.
“I can’t remember the build-up to the try. I just remember putting the ball down and being overwhelmed with joy and pride.
“I made a couple of mistakes but hopefully redeemed myself.”
And that redemption could prove key to Solomona’s long-term England future, with coach Eddie Jones revealing his 2019 World Cup squad will soon begin to take shape.
“This next Test [in Santa Fe on Saturday] is really important for these players,” he commented. “They have to understand they may get only one game to have the opportunity to show they are good enough to be in contention for the next World Cup.
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“You can always get those X-factor players who suddenly come through. We have seen a few now who previously we didn’t have on the radar. You always want that to happen.
“But generally speaking I would think 80 per cent of the squad will come from the next 45-man squad [announced in August].”
Discussing Solomona’s international bow, Jones added: “I think he was just so nervous. The big occasion got to him.
“But the great thing is he bounced back. He had one opportunity to carry the ball and it was a fantastic carry.”
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