20 Questions: Bill Meakes – Gloucester centre

Big game against Connacht today?
It’s a massive game for us. Winning the Challenge Cup was huge for the club and on the back of that we get the opportunity to play in those Champions Cup qualifiers.
When did that route to the Champions Cup become a real target?
We didn’t do as well as we’d have wished in the Premiership but we’ve done well in Europe all season. Once we realised we were out of the Top Six race we focused on Europe.
It means the season is two weeks longer now?
Yeah, it’s already a long campaign but there’s a big buzz around the club and the boys are up for it.
What do you know of Connacht?
They’re a very physical side and it was very tight when we faced them at Kingsholm in the quarter-finals.
Where will it be won or lost?
The forwards battle is going to be crucial. We’ll have to make sure we keep going forward to provide the backline with some good attacking ball.
How important have Greig Laidlaw and James Hook been this season?
They’ve been key to our success after so many changes last summer. Their experience has helped us to focus on the tasks ahead.
Did the players feel the pressure all season?
We’ve had a slow start in the Premiership so the pressure started to build up early on. But we’re in a good place now and very confident about the brand of rugby we’re playing.
Bodes well for next season then?
Definitely! Regardless of what happens in the next two weeks we’ll finish the season on a high and we’ll be looking to kick on from the off next season.
22 games for yourself, must be pleased?
If someone would have told me I’d play that much this season I’d have been very happy. I feel very privileged to be part of this team and, hopefully, I can keep pushing next season.
Promoted from the academy next season?
I only had a one-year academy deal so to be offered a two-year professional one is huge for me. The club are showing confidence in me and that’s great.
Seems to be a good mix of youth and experience in the squad?
Because of injuries, youngsters have been called upon this season and it’s fair to say they’ve all taken their opportunity. It’s very exciting for the fans and the club.
Hailing from Australia, aren’t you?
Yes, I grew up in Manly which is where I started playing rugby aged six. I moved through the ranks there and ended up playing in the 2011 Junior World Cup in Italy where we finished third.
Wished you had shot at Super Rugby?
I was in the Waratahs academy and it was a big goal of mine. It didn’t happen, unfortunately. But it’s fair to say I’m pretty happy to be where I am now.
Feeling at home in Gloucester then?
Funnily enough, yes. I live with Billy Burns in his brother’s old flat in Montpellier, Cheltenham. It’s a bit of a hot-spot in town so I’ve landed on my feet there.
How did the move to Gloucester come about?
My agent told me there was an opportunity to join Clifton in National League Two so I thought I’d have a crack and see what happens. I played for them last season and from there Gloucester picked me up.
Have you ever seen Laurie Fisher without his hat?
It’s a rare sight! The first time I saw him without his hat was on Tuesday for the end of the year dinner.
Hear you like a round of golf?
Yes, I play with a few of the lads when we can. Dan Robson is the best but he’s off to Wasps this summer so I’ll be looking to take his place at the top next year.
Three special dinner guests?
Kevin Hart, Cara Delevingne and LeBron James.
Best and worst banter at Gloucester?
Mark Atkinson is the best while Shane Monahan is the worst. You can hardly understand him with his Irish accent.
Best and worst dressed?
Jacob Rowan persists in thinking it’s OK to wear jeans and trainers so he’s the worst. Billy Twelvetrees is the best, though.
*This article was first published in The Rugby Paper on May 24.