TIM Catling admitted his progression into Oxford's Varsity Match squad had come as a shock.

The versatile 19-year-old forced his way on to the bench and was unlucky not to get a starting place after some fine displays at centre.

Catling said: "Having not been on tour, to then be involved was a bit of a shock. I'm very happy to be in the 22.

"I got my opportunity at full back against Newbury and I think I took it and went on from there.

"If someone had said I would be in the final 22 at the start of the season, I wouldn't have believed them.

"It will be a great occasion and I'm really looking forward to it.

"It's a great opportunity for me to get in my second year and I've got another three years left."

Catling, who is studying Japansese, is one of only two backs on the bench and is therefore likely to get on at some time.

Captain Kevin Brennan said: "We knew Tim was a good player, but he was away a lot last year in Japan.

"Since we came back from our tour, he has really stepped up and his performances have been outstanding.

"We certainly wouldn't have any problems if he was starting."

Oxford director of rugby Steve Hill said: "Tim will be our back-up No 10.

"He has done really well to come in and he is an example of how the system works.

"We have got players in our squad like Dan Rosen, Richard Matthews, Richard Graham, Doug Abbot and Jonan Boto, who have come up through the under 21s and the Greyhounds.

"They are guys who have not come here as superstars, but have worked hard for three years to develop and come through."