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Last Updated: Sunday, 4 September 2005, 14:08 GMT 15:08 UK
Van Gisbergen 'ready for England'
Mark van Gisbergen makes a tackle for Wasps against Saracens
Wasps director of rugby Ian McGeechan believes New Zealand-born Mark van Gisbergen is ready to play for England.

The 28-year-old full-back qualifies on residency grounds on 11 September and can be considered for the autumn Tests.

"I am sure he could (make the step up)," said McGeechan. "He is a quality player and very important for us.

"If you have players like that coming up, (England coach) Andy Robinson needs the widest base possible to pick from."

Van Gisbergen landed three perfectly-struck penalties from distance and two simple conversions in a faultless kicking display as Wasps began the defence of their title with a 23-11 win over Saracens.

The former Waikato fly-half, now in his fourth season at Wasps, has become a key player for the English champions with his solid defence, attacking flair and superb goal-kicking.

The England management have been monitoring his progress for the past two seasons, and he admitted last year he is keen to play Test rugby with his adopted country.

"I think it is possible," he told BBC Sport. "You have always got to have goals and as a rugby player I want to get to the top of the game."




SEE ALSO
Kiwi at home in Wasps nest
21 May 04 |  European Club


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