Lock Dominic Barrow has already made his first-team debut for Leeds Carnegie, despite being just 17 years old. He started in the LV= Cup game away to the Scarlets alongside James Craig, and although the young side lost the match 52-13, such exposure is exactly what Barrow will need if he is to impress international selectors.

A senior debut at such a young age has done just that, and England Academy coach John Fletcher says of the youngster: “He’s a very talented second-row. He’s still just a schoolboy, so to have made his first-team debut already is no mean feat.”

Barrow is studying for A Levels in English language, biology and psychology, as well as an NVQ Level Three in sporting excellence, at Prince Henry’s Grammar School in Otley. Danny Care was also a pupil there, and Barrow will be hoping to tread a similar path to that of the Harlequins and England scrum-half.

At 6ft 6in and 17st, he already has great physical attributes, and his leadership skills make him stand out from the crowd. It’s no surprise that two players he admires are Lawrence Dallaglio and Paul O’Connell, and he was picked to captain England U16 in 2009.

His competence at running the lineout at that age-group level earned him a place in the U18 squad and he scored a try on his debut against Australia Schools in December 2009. After touring South Africa last summer, he’s now gearing up for the Six Nations.

RUGBY WORLD VERDICT

Barrow’s leadership qualities will help him have a successful career.

Bea Asprey

This article appeared in the March 2011 issue of Rugby World Magazine

Do you want to buy the issue of Rugby World in which this article appeared? Back Issues Contact John Denton Services at 01733-385-170 visit http://mags-uk.com/ipc

Or perhaps you’d like a digital version of the magazine delivered direct to your PC, MAC or Ipad? If so click here.