Sale flanker Ben Curry will be in Yokohama to watch twin brother Tom play for England in Saturday’s Rugby World Cup final after his club agreed to release him for the weekend.
While Tom packs down against South Africa in England’s first final since 2007, Ben was preparing to play Bristol in an early-season Premiership match the day before.
“What would I remember when I’m 60, one game against Bristol or my twin playing in a World Cup final — and possibly winning it — with me in Japan?” Ben told the BBC.
“When you put it in those terms I thought I had to at least ask. Then I had a conversation with my parents and thought it could be a once in a lifetime opportunity. It is bigger than rugby.
“I felt I would regret not going more than I would regret the guilt of going so I thought I had to ask — I was so nervous, and I explained the situation.”
Ben was emboldened by a #GetBenToJapan social media campaign and Sale director of rugby Steve Diamond said “go for it” and agreed to give him a few days off.
Thankyou everyone involved in making this happen.Firstly @SaleSharksRugby for their support and I want to express my gratitude towards dimes, Simon and ged!thank you to all the sale fans who have been doing their part on social media! Rugby is more than a sport #GetBenToJapan
— Ben Curry (@BenCurry98) October 28, 2019
Their parents, sister and several friends are already in Japan.
While Tom, who also plays at Sale, has quickly developed into one of England’s key forwards. Ben has yet to make a senior international appearance, though he has been in a squad previously and played for England’s Under-20s.