McCalman hopeful that Tigers can 'crack on' in second half of PWR campaign

Leicester Tigers centre Jemima McCalman hopes that the club will kick on in the second half of the Premiership Women’s Rugby season.

After seven games the East Midlands club are winless and sit at the foot of the PWR table.

In her first season with the side, the former Wallaroo returned to England after spending Christmas in her native Australia and

When she departed New South Wales it was 45 degrees celsius. When she landed in London it was one degrees celsius.

Now reacclimatised to a British winter, McCalman and her teammates are preparing for a visit to top four contending Exeter Chiefs in Round 9 of the English league season.

It is also a first opportunity for the club to add to their solitary league point registered in Round 6 against Harlequins.

“Everyone’s come back really invigorated,” McCalman told Leicester Tigers. “They’ve enjoyed their break and come back ready to crack on with our goals for the rest of the season.

“This season feels really fresh and everyone’s excited to be part of building something really positive and building to become a team that’s competitive in the PWR, not just existing in it.”

Part of the enjoyment McCalman has gained with Leicester so far comes from competing for a starting jersey each week.

Throughout her time with Sydney University, ACT Brumbies and Blagnac SC, the 27-year-old was an undisputed starter.

With Leicester she contends on a day-to-day basis with USA Women’s Eagle, Emily Henrich for a chance at starting at outside centre.

“I think we both love it,” McCalman said. “We both have a lot of respect for how the other person plays, and there are parts of her game that I look at and I try to learn from. That’s been really important for improving my game.

“I think then the exciting thing is where I think we’re both hoping we get the chance to run around together. That will be really fun when the moment comes as well.”