The grounds of the Emirates Palace are usually a pretty tranquil place. But next week, up to 4,500 rugby fans will be shattering the calm as they loudly cheer on two of England’s greatest rugby teams, London Wasps and Harlequins, for some oval-balled action at a specially constructed stadium in the gardens. The LV Cup clash is the first time an English domestic club match has been played overseas, so we spoke to Quins flanker and former captain Will Skinner ahead of this momentous game
What should Abu Dhbai’s rugby fans be expecting from the Quins v Wasps game?
Well, hopefully they can expect a bit more of a free-flowing game than some of the matches we’ve had in England recently. The fans should definitely be expecting much nicer weather conditions and a great experience. There will also be a lot of enthusiasm and, hopefully, some great rugby from the players, which always helps to create a great atmosphere.
Your team’s strung together some good results recently – what’s the mood like going into this game?
Obviously, we’re all really excited about going over there [Abu Dhabi]. We’re missing some of the guys for the Rugby Six Nations, but everybody who’s available is trying to make a real effort to show their fitness over the next couple of games because they all really want to be involved. Among the team there’s a lot of momentum at the moment, we’ve had some great results over the Christmas period and we want to keep that up.
Why do you think this English club game has been scheduled to take place in Abu Dhabi?
I think it’s about promoting rugby in the UAE. A couple of years ago we were over in Abu Dhabi doing some coaching with the Emirati kids and I was surprised by how well they took to the game. Their parents were amazed to see how much they were enjoying the game and that they were aware of the discipline needed to play. Hopefully it will inspire more youngsters to take up the sport.
Who inspired you to play rugby?
My brothers are probably the ones who inspired me. Both my older brothers played for a local rugby club, so I used to go along with them. I found myself really enjoying it and discovered that I was quite good at it as well, so I guess it all carried on from there.
Do you have a message for any aspiring rugby players in the UAE?
I would just say to them to get as much experience of the game as possible, whether that means playing on the beach or at school or just watching it either by going to a match or watching it on TV. If they want to play, they should give our sister affiliate club, Abu Dhabi Harlequins, a call and get involved with them. Whatever position you get a chance to play in just give it a go because I think it helps you understand the game a lot more and develop within your preferred position.
What are you planning to do in your spare time in Abu Dhabi?
Hopefully I’ll get to play a bit of golf, as there are some really nice courses. It all depends on how we feel once we get out there, though, as some of the team may find themselves a bit jet lagged. Last time I was here we stayed on Yas Island, but it was all still being built. We had a look around the Yas Marina Circuit and part of Ferrari World, but I’d love to go there and see them again now that it’s all finished.
Harlequins v Wasps takes place on January 30 at Emirates Palace. Tickets cost Dhs200 for adults and Dhs100 for children, available at Emirates Palace (02 690 9000) or www.union.quins.co.uk
