Running out at Twickenham is the dream for every grassroots rugby player and two Risborough RFC Ladies stalwarts are getting the chance to do just that next month.

Hannah Gale, 28 and second-row Emily Ingram have been chosen for a NatWest Grassroots Barbarians side to play at HQ on June 9.

They are part of the NatWest Grassroots Barbarians team, coached by Rugby World Cup winner Will Greenwood, who will pit their wits against another team made up of players from grassroots rugby clubs across the UK and Ingram is blown away by the opportunity to play on that famous turf.

“I’m really excited, very nervous and can’t really believe it’s happening,” said Gale

“I’ve only ever been to Twickenham to watch. I take every opportunity to go there as a fan and I guess I’ve done it again.

“It’s great to represent the growth of women’s rugby. I’ve played for the club and Coventry University for four years now so I’d like to think I’ll bring some experience and spark to the team.

“It’s a very exciting opportunity. If it helps continue the momentum behind the women’s game, it’s cool to be a part of it and worthwhile.”

NatWest RugbyForce is a longstanding initiative run by the Official Banking Partner of England Rugby.

This year, all clubs that registered for NatWest RugbyForce were entered into a draw for their chance for club players to be selected to join the Grassroots Barbarians.

On 9 June four teams of the most committed players from clubs around the country will go head-to-head, supported by their clubs, rugby legends and current players to celebrate the grassroots game.

Greenwood, who led his squad through a coaching day in the Midlands last weekend, said: “It’s really is a tiny fraction of the rugby population who get to run out into the iconic, 80,000 seater stadium.

“Most of them will have seen it on the telly and now they’re stepping into the shoes of titans and having a dig themselves. It’s a wonderful initiative.

“I remember my first time playing at Twickenham with Lancashire in 1991 and the memory is as strong as any of my Test matches.

“It’s critical to support the grassroots game. NatWest RugbyForce recognises this and gives grants to grassroots rugby clubs and it’s so important.

“Whether it buys a new tackle bag or provides the first-team with kit so they all look like a team – these things are often taken for granted and make a big difference.”