CIRENCESTER youngster Emily Conner admits she is counting down the days until the Rugby World Cup 2015 kicks off after being surprised by Land Rover with the news that she is to be an official mascot, writes Kostas Lionas.

Along with her Royal Wootton Bassett team, Conner attended a Land Rover Premiership Rugby Cup at London Irish last season.

It was there that the 12-year-old impressed with her imaginary speech to the England team ahead of the Rugby World Cup 2015 final, which has now earned her her own spot in the tournament.

Conner will now be Australia’s mascot when they face Fiji at the Millennium Stadium on September 23, and the Pinewood School near Shrivenham pupil can’t wait to get going.

“I feel really excited, I can’t wait,” said Conner, one of 96 official Rugby World Cup 2015 mascots selected by Land Rover as part of its ‘We Deal in Real’ campaign.

“I am looking forward to running out on the pitch and witnessing the atmosphere while millions of people are watching,” said Emily.

Her mother, Dr Natasha Conner, added: “We’re very proud of her. It is a real privilege as the family loves rugby.”

Land Rover is a worldwide partner of Rugby World Cup 2015 and is recruiting all 96 official mascots for the tournament as part of its ‘We Deal In Real’ campaign. Follow @LandRoverRugby #WeDealInReal.