sport news Ollie Hassell-Collins shows flashes of promise but has to learn some harsh ... trends now
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In the end, the spells were cast elsewhere. The finishing touches in this crackling Calcutta Cup were applied not by the painted nails of Ollie Hassell-Collins but by other fliers and wizards around Twickenham.
For this, his international debut on England’s left wing, the 24-year-old decorated his fingers with the flag of Saint George. ‘Permanent jewellery’, Hassell-Collins calls it. His chance to make a fashion statement even with ball in hand. He likes a trinket and Harry Potter and medicinal mushrooms and walking his cats. And, on a weekend, taking defenders for a ride, too.
As England embarked on this new era under Steve Borthwick, the London Irish wing took his first bow.
Alas, as Scotland triumphed in this toe-to-toe tussle, Hassell-Collins was consigned to the shadows.
It was 65 minutes of effort and endeavour but few real openings. Instead, it was left to others to light up this place and this tournament.
Ollie Hassell-Collins showed glimpses of his ability but wasn't able to really stand out
Before all the noise and all the fireworks, Twickenham paused for a moment. Supporters and players from both teams paid tribute to fallen heroes of previous
