Daniel Stuart Care, born on January 2, 1987, is an English rugby union player renowned for his skills as a scrum-half. He currently plays for Harlequins in the Premiership and has been a valuable member of the England national team since 2008, amassing an impressive 87 caps. Care's rugby journey began in Leeds, West Yorkshire, where he first played the sport at the age of 6 for the local club, West Park Bramhope RUFC (now known as West Park Leeds RUFC). At age 11, he joined the Academy at Sheffield Wednesday Football Club, temporarily stepping away from club rugby union but continuing to play the game at Prince Henry's Grammar School in Otley. Despite a setback due to a broken leg sustained in a school game, Care's talent shone through, leading to his selection for various youth age groups in England, including England Sevens and England Saxons.
Care's early career saw him join the Leeds Tykes academy at the start of the 2003-04 season. He quickly made an impact, with Leeds winning the National Under-19 Colts Cup that season and Care being named Tykes' Players' Young Player of the Year. He also showcased his skills at school level, helping Prince Henry's secure victories in the Under-16 Yorkshire Cup and the Daily Mail Under-18 Vase, where he scored 13 points in the final. Care's talent continued to flourish, earning him a spot in the England Clubs Under-18's squad for the Four Nations Tournament. Additionally, he represented England in sevens rugby, making his debut in the rugby sevens at the 2004 Commonwealth Youth Games in Australia, where England claimed the silver medal.
In 2006, Care made a move to Harlequins, signing a three-year contract with the club. His success continued, and he represented England in various tournaments, including the Commonwealth Games in Melbourne, where he won a silver medal. Care's versatility was evident as he played for England in both sevens and fifteens rugby, showcasing his talent and contributing to England's achievements in international competitions. Back at Harlequins, he faced competition for the scrum-half position but managed to secure game time, earning his first Guinness Premiership start for the club in a victory against Bath. He also captained the England Under-20 team during the 2007 Six Nations, gaining valuable leadership experience.
The 2007-08 season proved to be a significant turning point for Care. His outstanding performances led to his selection for the England training squad and subsequently his debut for England against New Zealand. He went on to secure a starting spot for England in the following year's Autumn Internationals. Despite injury setbacks and mixed performances, Care's dedication and talent earned him a place in the England squad for various tournaments, including the 2009 RBS 6 Nations and the summer tour to Argentina. At club level, he continued to excel with Harlequins, contributing to their success in the Guinness Premiership and the Heineken Cup.
Care's career progression continued into the 2009-10 season, where he played a crucial role as England's starting scrum-half in the RBS 6 Nations Championship. Although the team finished in third place, Care's performances remained consistent. However, at club level, Harlequins experienced a disappointing season, finishing eighth in the Guinness Premiership.
Throughout his career, Care has showcased his exceptional skills and versatility, earning a reputation as a talented and dynamic scrum-half. With his agility, playmaking abilities, and leadership qualities, he has been a valuable asset for both Harlequins and the England national team. As he continues to contribute to the sport, fans eagerly anticipate his future achievements and the impact he will have on the game.
Ahead of the Rugby World Cup 2023, Care has been named in the squad for England.
KG(22/06/2023)
Career
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Harlequins Scrum Half |
2006 - present |
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England Scrum Half |
2008 - present |
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Leeds Tykes Scrum Half |
2003 - 2006 |
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England U20's Scrum Half |
2007 - 2017 |
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Prince Henry's Grammar School (Otley) Scrum Half |
