Cato: Raw talent

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July's edition of Rugby World profiles England Under-20 winger Noah Cato.

Had it not been for the eagle eyes of the Saracens scouts, Noah Cato's potential might have gone unnoticed.

But the club saw him in action for London U18s two years ago, signed him up and now heıs on his way to a career at the top level.

Cato grew up in Brighton, was educated at Hurstpierpoint College and excelled at hockey, cricket, athletics and football as well as rugby.

Some of his natural talent may come from his grandad Glen Wilson, a Brighton & Hove Albion FC legend who played more than 400 times for them in the 1950s.

Cato played rugby at school and Hove RFC, but his potential wasnıt spotted until he was finishing his A levels.

"Mark Mapletoft was with the Saracens academy then. As he puts it, he was looking for a bit of gas and asked me up for a trial," says Cato.

Despite having a lot to learn about the finer points of wing play, Cato quickly impressed.

Saracens academy manager Mike Hynard says: "He has a raw talent with a lot of speed but he didnıt know a lot about the game when he arrived.

"But he stands out for his intelligence and dedication. Iıve had seven years at Saracens Academy and he is probably the most exciting player we have had since Richard Haughton"

Former England fly-half Mapletoft, now one of the coaches of England U20s, has also been a big help.

Cato scored a try in every game ­ and two against Scotland ­ as the age-group side won a Six Nations Grand Slam and also crossed three times during the teamıs march to the final of the Junior World Cup.

"His strike rate is phenomenal," adds Hynard. "He seems to score almost every time he plays.

"He has a tremendous future and will be a household name."

VERDICT: Cato's a top talent who will improve with more game time.