‘It’s an honour and a privilege’ – England duo receive Barbarians call for Fiji clash

This summer, at Twickenham Stadium, England internationals Jonny May and David Ribbans will don the Barbarians jersey when they play Fiji in the Killik Cup.

In the match against the Flying Fijians on Saturday, June 22, both players will play for the Baa-Baas for the first time in their careers. However, Ribbans’ inclusion is dependent on whether his club side Toulon makes it to the Top 14 semifinals. Former Crusaders and Wallabies head coach Robbie Deans will be in charge of the invitational squad, which already includes players like Ben Youngs, Zach Mercer, Jonathan Joseph, and Danny Care.

consecutive games

More than half a million tickets have already been purchased for the largest rugby showcase of the summer, which also includes admission to the South Africa vs. Wales match that takes place prior to the Barbarians vs. Fiji match.

May ended his ten-year international career six months ago following the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France. During that time, he appeared in 78 Test match appearances for England, scoring 36 tries to rank second on the team’s all-time try-scoring record.

The dynamic wing made his international debut for England against Argentina in 2013 and created waves the following year against New Zealand in his incredible maiden Test try.
May finished twice against Australia in the quarterfinal of the 2019 Rugby World Cup on his 50th cap, and he was also the leading try-scorer in the Six Nations, having crossed six times.

The 34-year-old joined the Cherry and Whites for two stints during his career and has made just under 200 appearances for the Kingsholm team overall. He came via Gloucester’s Academy system. Additionally, he played with the Leicester Tigers for three seasons, making 44 appearances and scoring 30 tries.

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Although May hasn’t played for Barbarian F.C., she has played for England in non-cap international matches against the invitational squad in 2013, 2017, 2018, and 2022. May is eager to wear the Black and White jersey for the first time in order to fulfill a longstanding dream.

He remarked, “You grow up watching the Barbarians and hoping you might get the opportunity to play for them one day.” “I’m thrilled to get the chance to play now; I’ve been asked to play previously, but it never quite worked out with other commitments.

“Everyone is always interested in watching this team, and it’s a great team for young players to look up to.” Being involved is a privilege and an honor for me.

“It’s especially special to me because it’s at Twickenham too.” You never know when anything will happen for the last time, and this might be it. Returning there with a new side is an incredible experience that never gets old. English rugby’s home pitch is a fantastic place to be.

“I’ve had a few games against the Baa-Baas, and it’s usually a difficult match for the national team. I am actually enjoying being on the opposite side of that this time because you are playing against a team that is seeking to whizz the ball around and has the pressure off of them!

“From what I’ve heard, the preparation is unmatched by any other team, and I’m excited to see what that’s like, even though you’re essentially playing a Test match at the end of the week.” The Barbarians take a different tack, take things back, and inspire the group to play freely, enjoy themselves, and express themselves.It’s a great opportunity, and I intend to take use of it by socializing and enjoying the game of rugby with new people.

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Call-ready ribbans

Following the Rugby World Cup in 2018, Ribbans moved across the channel to Toulon, having earned 11 caps for England since his debut in 2022.

After joining the Côte d’Azur from Premiership team Northampton Saints (where he played in 121 games over seven seasons in England), the towering 28-year-old lock has helped the French giants push into Top 14 play-off contention this season.

Being selected for the Barbarians, one of the most illustrious and prestigious rugby teams in the world, is incredibly exciting, according to Ribbans.

“I’m obviously totally committed to the team and now focused on the Top 14 run-in with Toulon.” We’ve put ourselves in a fantastic position to go to the competition’s knockout stages this summer.It will be an incredible experience to don the Black and White jersey for the first time, though, if I am able to play for the Baa-Baas. I can’t wait to see what the upcoming months have in store.

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