ONE of the biggest names in English rugby union in the 21st century will be coming to Oswestry this spring.

Chris Robshaw, former captain of the England national rugby union team between 2012-2015, will be at Oswestry Showground Pavilion, near the rugby club, on Saturday, March 2 for a black-tie event Sportsman’s Dinner.

There will be a three-course dinner plus a cheese board provided by Whitchurch’s Belton Farm ahead of a night of tales from a giant of the game.

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A spokesman for the event gave the rundown on Robshaw’s career, from his debut in 2007 to his first game as England skipper.

They said: “Winning the Aviva Premiership Player of the Year award twice, Will Greenwood compared Robshaw to the World Cup-winning blindside flanker, Richard Hill.

“The award was first won following the 2008/9 season and then for a second time after the Harlequins 2011-12 victory in the Premiership final against Leicester Tigers.

“Robshaw’s mind then became focused on becoming an ‘uncapped’ Lion and securing a place on the upcoming Lions tour to South Africa.

“Although only previously obtaining a single cap, in January 2012 it was announced that Robshaw would captain for England, the first two games of the Six Nations.

“Robshaw’s talent in leadership became highlighted and he went on to captain throughout the whole tournament resulting in a clean sweep of wins and only a narrow loss to eventual Grand Slam winners Wales.

“Robshaw's success continued as he helped drive his team to victory against New Zealand at the end of 2012.

“He was widely praised for his excellent captaincy and skills as a player, especially after the 2015 Six Nations Championship.

“Robshaw played every minute of the campaign and had a fantastic first game against Wales in Cardiff where England won 21-16 with Robshaw contributing a huge 26 tackles.

“He finished his international career having started all 66 of his international caps.

“He also finished his career with the second-most England appearances as captain (43) behind Will Carling (59), but is the all-time leader in the professional era.”

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There are two packages available for the event, which starts at 6pm, with Gold at £900 per table or £90 per person, which offers drinks and canapes reception with a guest of honour, pictures with Robshaw, pick of table seating and a four-course dinner, among others.

The silver package is £750 per table or £75 per person and will be the four-course dinner and complementary wine.

To book a ticket, email thomasmarkgreenlands@gmail.com or call 07967 387199 or mike@owenstravel.co.uk or 07802302841.