Whirlwind journey for Hopper

After just 11 appearances for the Quins, Hopper is preparing to step up to the international stage with England's second string.

The 26-year-old hadn't even tasted top-flight action until November when George Lowe's ankle injury paved the way for Hopper to make his mark with a first start against Gloucester in the Heineken Cup.

Hopper, who made the switch from Championship side Cornish Pirates, scored on his first start and cemented himself in the side becoming a regular feature ever since.

The call-up is yet another advance for Hopper, who will celebrate his 27th birthday when he makes his first appearance for the Saxons, and he is treasuring such a huge shift in his career.

Whirlwind

"I'm obviously really happy to get the call and very excited about joining up with the Saxons," he told RFU.com.

"It's been a whirlwind over the last few months. I'll have a lot of family and friends watching and playing at Exeter is a nice bonus for me. Just to be part of it is really something."

Despite taking some time to reach the height of his game, Hopper has always been determined to make it to the top and relished the opportunity to test his skills at the top level.

"I've always had confidence in my own ability and what I could do," he added.

"I've been lucky in as much that an unfortunate injury to George Lowe opened the door for me to get a run of games.

Grateful

"I'm very grateful for Quins for giving me the chance and I hope I've repaid them over the last couple of months."

Hopper enjoyed a strong spell with the Pirates after making the RFU Championship play-off final but admits Harlequins made an offer he couldn't refuse.

"Last year was a good one at Pirates, then I had a chat with Conor (O'Shea) and Tofty (Mark Mapletoft) and they told me about Harlequins and their plans," he said.

"They sold it pretty well and Quins are playing a really exciting brand of rugby.

"So far there have been plenty of highlights, making my first start in the Heineken Cup against Gloucester, playing at Twickenham in from of 80,000 and winning away at Toulouse was the most special."