Bristol Bears scrum-half Harry Randall has returned to action ahead of schedule, marking a significant personal milestone and bolstering a team riding a wave of impressive form. The 28-year-old made his 150th appearance for the club in last weekend's victory over Newcastle Falcons, injecting his creative spark back into a side that has now secured five consecutive Premiership wins.
Bristol's Winning Formula and Randall's International Aspirations
Pat Lam's men currently sit fourth in the Gallagher Premiership table, their attractive, expansive style of play finally yielding consistent results. This resurgence has reignited talk of a playoff challenge. For Randall, who featured in England's successful summer tour of the Americas, this club form is a timely opportunity to press his case for selection in Steve Borthwick's Six Nations squad.
"We've had a change of mindset," Randall explained, discussing Bristol's transformation. "We feel like we are a really hard team to beat now. Defensively we've made improvements from last year. The way we've been training and the preparation we've been doing has had a massive effect."
The Unsung Heroes and Sparkling Talent
Randall was quick to credit the industry of Bristol's pack for creating the platform that allows the backs to flourish. He highlighted the "unseen work" of players like Argentine lock Pedro Rubiolo and number eight Fitz Harding. "Among ourselves it doesn't go unnoticed," he added.
This graft enables the likes of Ellis Genge and the returning Louis Rees-Zammit to showcase their game-breaking abilities. "You've got to get them on the ball as much as you can. They are special players and can do things other people can't," Randall said of the powerful duo.
Building Bridges with Borthwick's England
With 14 England caps to his name, Randall faces stiff competition for the number nine jersey from the likes of Alex Mitchell and Ben Spencer. However, he remains in the thoughts of head coach Steve Borthwick, who has maintained contact during the player's rehabilitation from hamstring surgery.
"It was just a case of him reaching out and asking how my operation went," Randall revealed. "I just got a message off him again when I got back from injury last week, saying: 'Good to see you back.' I really appreciate those messages, it's a lovely touch."
He praised the positive environment within the national set-up and noted the impact of attack coach Lee Blackett, appointed permanently in September. "I think Lee going in was a statement of intent. He's had a great effect already... They're playing a great brand of rugby and the fans are enjoying it."
A Friday Night Test Against Sale
The immediate focus, however, is Friday night's Premiership encounter with Sale Sharks at Ashton Gate. Sale have won on their last three visits, including a 38-0 victory just over a year ago, but this Bristol side appears transformed.
"As a group we feel confident at the moment, and a confident team is always a dangerous team," Randall stated. "You build good momentum, you get the ball rolling: it's been a good time for us."
Off the field, life is busy for Randall with 21-month-old twin girls, though he enjoys the coffee shops of Clifton when time allows. His one confessed pre-match ritual? "I tend to have a Nando's the night before a game," he admitted, noting the team often does the same on away trips. With protein and carbs in mind, even the nutritionist approves of the chicken, chips, and garlic bread. If Bristol's form continues, it might just be a recipe for success.
