Julian Saunders has become the first member of the Gloucestershire Rugby Academy, based at Hartpury College, selected to represent his country.

Julian, aged 20, represented the WRU Welsh Students against their French counterparts at Tournon recently.

Julian, from Llanelli, previously played for Llanelli for the last three seasons prior to joining the Academy. He now regularly plays for Gloucester RFC U21s and Gloucester United.

Julian is a scholarship student at the Academy and is currently studying a Professional Development Certificate in Rugby Coaching Studies.

Sean Holley, Director of the Rugby Academy and also National Coach to the Welsh Students commented: "Julian had a very good first international game. The experience was invaluable for Julian and his aim should be to achieve a squad place for next years Six Nations."