subject: Shontayne Hape 'proud to be an Englishman' after Six Nations call-up [print this page] Shontayne Hape has declared himself "proud to be an Englishman" after being called up by Martin Johnson for the Six Nations. Hape was born in New Zealand and won 14 rugby league caps for the Kiwis before switching to union in 2008, but has lived in England for seven years and received residency papers this month. "I was brought up in New Zealand and I'm proud of where I come from but I'm proud to be an Englishman as well and have dual nationality," Hape told the Bath Chronicle. "I was expecting a bit more resistance from friends and family, but they are all behind me 100%." The centre, who moved from Super League team Bradford Bulls to Bath 18 months ago, said he almost didn't return Johnson's call. "I didn't know whether someone was playing a prank," he said. "I definitely didn't expect it. When I came to Bath 18 months ago it was all about learning the game. This is a big bonus and a great honour. I'm just humbled by it all. It still hasn't sunk in that I'm in the squad. I'm made up. "But it's a first step. Being in the squad is one thing, actually playing international rugby is another. I'm looking forward to the challenge and it's one that I'm going to relish. "First, I've got to focus on doing things right at Bath over the next two weeks - for the club, my team and myself. It will really help me if I put in a couple of good performances before I go off to training camp with England in Portugal." For More Information Please Visit: Six Nations HospitalityEngland V Wales Hospitality
Shontayne Hape 'proud to be an Englishman' after Six Nations call-up
By: sam pit
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