"I was delighted when Brian Ashton told me I would start against South Africa; I was shocked and it was great to get the news," said the 21 year-old, who has had a tremendous season for Club and country, finishing Quins leading try scorer in the Guinness Premiership as well as being named Player of the Year, in addition to representing the England Saxons team back in February.

"At the start of the season all I was thinking about was getting a regular start for NEC Harlequins and then maybe the Saxons, so to get my England debut is fantastic."

Brown also commented on what he believes has helped him to rise through the national ranks to the top of the international arena.

"I've played for the Under 21s and enjoyed it and my time with the Saxons earlier this year certainly helped. The Saxons has been a great stepping stone for me as it took me into the senior international arena and I got a lot from the games against Italy and Ireland, and it has proved to be a good pathway to the senior England team."

Naturally, Brown kept the news about being selected for the team this weekend close to home to begin with.

"The first person I told was my Dad and he is coming over to the game on Saturday."