Old Abingdonian selected for this summer’s England Rugby tour
We are delighted to share the wonderful news that Old Abingdonian Charlie Atkinson has been selected for the senior men’s England Rugby tour of Argentina and the United States this summer. This is a richly deserved honour for Charlie and a moment of immense pride for him, his family, and the entire Abingdon School community.
The tour kicks off with a two-Test series against Argentina, with matches taking place in La Plata on Saturday 5 July and in San Juan on Saturday 12 July. England will then travel to the United States to face the USA Eagles in Washington D.C. on Saturday 19 July.
Charlie attended Abingdon from Lower School through to the Sixth Form leaving in 2020. His outstanding rugby talent, humility, and leadership qualities were evident from an early stage. Awarded Full Colours for his contribution to the School’s rugby club, Charlie went on to represent England at U18 and U20 level, playing key roles in summer tours and tournaments.
Charlie began his professional career with Wasps, making his Premiership debut as a teenager and establishing himself as one of the most exciting young fly-halves in the country. Following Wasps’ administration in 2022, he signed for Leicester Tigers before moving to Gloucester Rugby in December 2023. Charlie has continued to impress at the highest level, earning selection for England A in 2024 and again in February earlier this year.
Charlie’s selection this summer is particularly special, as it marks the first time in two decades that an Old Abingdonian has been selected in a men’s national rugby squad – the last being OA, Jonathon Dunbar (1998 leaver), who made his debut for Scotland in 2005. Charlie’s journey stands as a shining example of where dedication, resilience, and strength of character can lead.
Everyone at Abingdon is enormously proud of Charlie – not only for his achievements on the field but also for the exemplary way he has conducted himself off it. His determination, humility, and passion for the game make him an inspiration to our pupils and a wonderful ambassador for the School.
We send Charlie our very best wishes for the summer tour and look forward to cheering him on with great pride.
Find out more about England Rugby’s summer tour.
