Katy's international call-up
Feb 1 2007 By Stuart Rayner, The Journal
Jonny Wilkinson will not be the only North-East fly-half facing a nervous weekend. A couple of hours before the Newcastle Falcons star makes his international comeback, Katy McLean from South Shields is expected to make her international debut in the women's Six Nations tournament.
The Thirsk Sharks player is named on the bench for England's opening game, also against Scotland, at the rather less glamorous surroundings of Old Albanians Rugby Club on Saturday afternoon and seems certain to be introduced at some stage.
"It is a real surprise to break into the first-team squad but I was always hopeful," said the 21-year-old of her selection.
"My family and friends are really pleased, especially as they know how much work I have put in. I can't wait now for Saturday. I am sure it will be a great day."
The Sunderland University third year sports studies student is by no means an international novice, but has yet to claim her first cap nonetheless.
McLean started playing as a 12-year-old for Westoe Boys, progressing into the women's game with South Tyneside girls and from there into the international set-up.
McLean is from a rugby-playing family. Her dad represented Westoe Rugby Senators and introduced her to the sport at the age of seven.
She now plays national Division One rugby for Thirsk who are, rather confusingly, based in Darlington.
England's women are ranked number two in the world.
The women's Six Nations runs in parallel to the main event and a crowd of around 3,000 is anticipated to watch Saturday's match, which kicks off at 2.30pm.