The Bath star is determined to make his mark as he eyes a first cap with England.
Alfie Barbeary, the dynamic Number 8 from Bath, is on a mission to secure his first cap for England. As he prepares to take the field for England A against Ireland’s A team, Barbeary is keenly aware of the competitive nature of his position.
With a strong performance on the horizon, he hopes to solidify his place in the conversation for senior team selection.
Staying in the conversation
For Barbeary, the key to success lies in maintaining visibility within the rugby community. He recently stated, “I wouldn’t say it’s patience; it’s more about staying in the conversation than anything.” This mindset is crucial, especially after a challenging start to the season, which included a couple of head knocks.
However, he has rebounded, finding his form in the Premiership Cup and gaining confidence along the way.
Barbeary’s determination is evident as he continues to push himself and his teammates at Bath. He emphasizes the importance of consistently putting forth his best effort, stating, “It’s not necessarily about patience, just not getting bored of going out with Bath and putting your best foot forward.” His inclusion in the England A setup is a promising sign of his progress.
Transitioning to a key role
Having transitioned from a hooker at Wasps to a back row player, Barbeary has become a pivotal ball carrier for Bath, currently leading the team in this aspect. His natural size has played a significant role in his development, allowing him to dominate in physical confrontations. Barbeary enjoys the thrill of big moments on the field, stating, “I do like those big moments; it’s nice when they come by.” This competitive spirit drives him to excel in every match.
Despite his physical advantages, Barbeary understands the importance of skill development. He recalls playing at an age grade above his own, which forced him to refine his core skills and not rely solely on his size. This dedication to improvement has shaped him into a well-rounded player, ready to face the challenges of the Premiership and beyond.
Facing fierce competition
As Barbeary looks to secure his first England cap, he acknowledges the fierce competition within the Number 8 position. With standout players like Ben Earl and Tom Willis already making their mark, Barbeary knows he must continue to perform at a high level. He remarked, “It is a very saturated market at Number 8, so I can only focus on myself; I can’t let the outside noise dictate it.” This focus will be essential as he aims to contribute to Bath’s quest for a Premiership title, a feat they have not achieved in nearly 30 years.
Barbeary’s competitive nature extends beyond the rugby field. He recently expressed frustration over a loss in darts to teammate Jack Kenningham, showcasing his drive to excel in all areas. With a strong setup at home, he continues to hone his skills, proving that his competitive spirit knows no bounds.
As the season progresses, Barbeary remains committed to his goals, determined to make a name for himself in the England setup. With the right mindset and continued hard work, he is well on his way to achieving his dream of representing his country on the international stage.
