The chairman of England star Ben Earl’s old rugby club has described him as an inspiration as he prepares for the World Cup Semi-Finals.

Earl, 25, who started his career at Sevenoaks, played a vital role during England’s narrow Quarter-Final victory over Fiji on Sunday.

Millions of fans are set to tune in as Steve Borthwick’s side face defending champions and favourites South Africa at the Stade de France in Paris on Saturday (8pm).

Sevenoaks chairman Steve Fitzmaurice will be among them.

“Ben is having an absolutely storming tournament,” said Fitzmaurice, who will be watching in the Sevenoaks clubhouse.

“He’s inspired the nation, let alone Sevenoaks Rugby Club, and we’re looking forward to seeing him go well for England on Saturday evening.”

Earl, a flanker for Premiership side Saracens, came through the youth section at Sevenoaks and was educated at Tonbridge School.

Fitzmaurice remembers a talented young player.

He said: “I was coaching another age group but everyone was aware of him and he was always full of enthusiasm, full of commitment, giving it 100% on the pitch.

“He was an incredible athlete, multi-sport in terms of his talents, it wasn’t just rugby, then he went on in his rugby career and look at where he is today.

“It’s a huge inspiration. Sevenoaks Rugby Club is a club for all abilities, all ages from under-5s and upwards.

“Obviously not everybody can become a Ben Earl but he inspires the club, he inspires others.

“I was lucky enough to have a chat with him when he came back to present one of his representative shirts to the club.

“I had the chance to mention to him then what an inspiration he is and how he, as a role model, inspires others to be the best they can be.

“He’s stayed in touch with us actually during the tournament as well.

“We’ve been sending him well-wishes and support and he’s been getting back in touch with us.”

Earl impressed in England’s Quarter-Final but saw Fiji come from behind to level the contest at 24-24.

But with Borthwick’s team edging back ahead, they sealed their success thanks to another Owen Farrell penalty after a lung-busting run by Earl helped England turn defence into attack as they won 30-24.

The other Semi-Final sees Argentina take on New Zealand with the Final due to take place on Saturday, October 28.