George Martin’s Rapid Rise Leaves “Mr. Incredible” Tag Behind
George Martin’s impressive rise has seen the young Leicester and England star shed his “Mr. Incredible” nickname as he outgrows his tiny first car, now set to be a key figure for Steve Borthwick’s national side on their upcoming summer tour.
The Giant’s New Ride
The giant 22-year-old second row, standing at 6ft 6in and 19 stone, was once the butt of jokes from his teammates for squeezing into a Volkswagen Up. But with a new, more suitable vehicle from the Pulman Group, Martin is ready to focus on his international progression, eager to impress in Japan and New Zealand.
“I’ve finally stopped getting stick from the lads about my car now I’ve got a new one,” Martin said. “It’s a funny story. It was Ollie who started it by calling me Mr. Incredible. I still need to go round to his house to show the new car to him, but that’ll have to wait.”
Comparisons to a Legend
With just 12 caps to his name, Martin’s unrelenting physicality and ferocious work in the contact area have drawn comparisons to former England captain Martin Johnson. However, the young lock remains grounded, excited to experience new cultures on his first international summer tour.
“I didn’t have that much of a break after the end of the season as I tried to keep myself fit and ready because I’m really excited for this summer tour,” Martin explained. “It’s my first, and I’m keen to experience new cultures and see what Japan and New Zealand are like.”
A Tough Challenge Ahead
England will face a tough challenge against the hosts Japan in Tokyo this Saturday, before two Tests against the mighty All Blacks. Martin, who is likely to partner Maro Itoje in Borthwick’s pack, is “buzzing” for the chance to learn from facing the world’s best.
“We know Japan are a great team and they’re going to be very tough to beat,” he said. “New Zealand are obviously going to be a big challenge. I grew up watching their games on TV and I loved the haka. I’ve looked up to a number of their players.”
A Bright Future
With a bright future ahead, Martin is determined to continue his upward curve on the international stage, eager to contribute to an “exciting group of new players” set to showcase England’s “brand of attacking rugby” in the southern hemisphere.
🔗 Source
