MAUD Muir, who started playing rugby in Oxfordshire, has been named in the England Women Under 20s squad for the season.

The 18-year-old flanker has just started a Brunel Sports Scholarship, where she trains as a professional athlete while tackling a sports science degree.

She is one of 24 players who will train with her country at monthly three-day training boot camps, as well as competing in the Tyrrells Premier 15s and British Universities and College Sport (BUCS) leagues.

“I’m relieved that the hard work and long hours travelling have paid off,” said Maud, who used to play for Gosford All Blacks.

Maud, a keen cricketer who turned out for Charlbury, plays for both Brunel and Wasps.

“I’m training most days,” she added.

“When I’m not at Wasps, I’ll be at university training or in lectures.

“It does take a lot of time travelling to Wasps, but I’m used to it.

“Last season I’d get the bus from Oxford while studying for my A-levels.”