THE greatest stage of all awaits Kendal's Mark Wilson on Saturday.

The former Kirkbie Kendal School student came on as replacement in England's magnificent Rugby Union World Cup semi-final triumph over New Zealand last Saturday.

And after the pundits and commentators heaped praise on the 30-year-old flanker for his performance, which one national newspaper described as an "all action cameo," there appears to be every chance he will gain a place in the squad for the final showdown against South Africa in Yokohama.

Kendal RUFC chairman Steve Green said it was a memorable morning at Wilson's former club as a packed clubhouse watched the game on several TV screens.

And he said he expected a similar electric atmosphere on Saturday as Eddie Jones' side attempt to complete the job and win the World Cup.

"It was a great atmosphere last Saturday and there was a big roar when Mark came on the field," said Mr Green.

"Obviously we are so pleased for him and we all hope he will get a place in the squad for Saturday.

"He did so well and I feel he has done enough to earn that place."

He added that a number of club members and players were hastily planning to make the 11,000 mile round trip out to Japan to cheer on their former colleague in the big game.

Wilson began his senior career at Penrith before moving to his home town club.

He spent two seasons at Mint Bridge before joining Newcastle Falcons, but after the Falcons' relegation last season, he has agreed a season long loan at Sale Sharks who he is due to join after the World Cup.

The campaign in Japan began with Wilson on the fringes of the match day squad but he won a place on the bench for that last four showdown against the All Blacks and took full advantage.

When he entered the fray in the second period he immediately won a penalty which relieved the pressure on his side, and the statistics show he had 13 involvements in the game in the short time he was on the field.

And Mr Green said there was an air of excitement at Mint Bridge as one of their own former players looked set to do battle in a game which will be watched by a crowd of more than 70,000 at the stadium and a TV audience of millions around the globe.

The only downside on what was a memorable day for the club was the fact