Having made a real impact from the bench in the narrow defeat to Ireland Wolfhounds, the number 8 was handed a first start in Scotland seven days later. While a late penalty saw the game frustratingly end in a draw, Dickinson relished his opportunities.
“It was really good,” he told the Saints podcast. “I really enjoyed getting a taste of the next level.
“On a personal level it was great. It was nice to be given the chance in the first place [against Ireland] and then to get the start the following week was brilliant.
“Weather-wise it wasn’t the best but perhaps suited the way I play a little better! It might not have been great for the audience but it was a brilliant experience.
“It’s good to be back now though. Everyone asks ‘how was it?’ when you come home and while I enjoyed it, it’s also great to be back in the environment that got me there in the first place.
It has been a rapid rise for the 29-year-old, who less than 12 months ago was tentatively feeling his way back into the game on dual registration with Moseley after a complicated arm injury.
“It’s been a rollercoaster ride, from when I was sat in the physio room just hoping things were going to get better to where I’ve come. There are so many thanks to be given out to everyone along the way, at the Saints and for the opportunities I’ve been given.”
You can hear Dickinson’s full interview on his taste of the Saxons, as well as stacks of preview ahead of the Aviva Premiership trip to Exeter by downloading the official Saints podcast on Friday. Simply CLICK HERE for a download or listen online that is compatible on all devices as well as being 100% FREE!
