HEAVYWEIGHT Craig Quinnell is determined to make Worcester Rugby Club a knockout success in the promotion scrap.

The 20-stone powerhouse, who has signed on at Sixways after being released by Saracens, is hoping to make his debut against Otley on Saturday.

And the 6ft 7in lock-cum-flanker admitted that he could not wait to get his Worcester career underway as the National One high flyers continue to go toe-to-toe with Rotherham in the title race.

"The coaches want me to carry the ball up and be a physical presence on the field - I am more than happy to do that," he said.

"That's the bit of the game I love and that was one of the main reasons why I came here. I want to enjoy the rugby, get involved, carry the ball up and be a part of what's happening.

"I cannot wait for the game at the weekend. My fitness is good and I'm really looking forward to Otley."

Quinnell had a straight choice after his Saracens exit - move back to Wales with Llanelli and Cardiff interested or stay in England with a Premiership club or a National One outfit.

However, with the uncertainty surrounding the Welsh game at present and most Premiership clubs having spent their playing budget within the salary cap, Worcester seemed the best bet for Quinnell.

"It was a difficult time of the season to change clubs what with salary caps for clubs in England.

"There was the opportunity of going back to Wales but at the moment there is so much uncertainty in Welsh rugby and you just do not know which teams are going to be existing next season.

"Worcester, though, are very ambitious. We are top of the league and if we can continue to progress this season there is a good chance of promotion. The facilities are great and I'm delighted to be here.

"They've given me the chance to play until the end of the season and I'm going to enjoy it. I want to enjoy myself and be happy and Worcester seems the best place for that."

n Worcester's postponed National One match at Orrell has been rescheduled for Sunday, February 16.

The new date means that Ben Hinshelwood is likely to be missing from the Worcester line-up because of Scotland Six Nations duty.

Orrell's Andy Craig, however, will also have international commitments while Sixways centre David Officer should have returned from injury.