England under-20 Six Nations: Father-son dynasties powering the future

There are challenges that come with a famous family name though. These are young men carrying the preconceptions and expectations of others.

“I always get called Mike Friday’s son, every time,” says 18-year-old Friday with a smile.

“I want to make a name for myself as well. My dad has done everything – he was really good – but obviously I want to try and push on for myself.

“It is not about escaping his shadow. I just want to be seen as my own person as well, not just a son.”

For Bracken it is about being more than a brother as well. Charlie, two years older, is also on Saracens’ books and has represented England under-20s in the past.

Bracken says that being a wing rather than a scrum-half like Charlie and Kyran limits comparisons, though even if they do come he has the belief that he could hold his own against his father’s heyday.

“I have been shown a few highlight reels and been told my dad used to be quicker than me – I’m not sure that works anymore!” he says.

“I have also watched a few England games from the 2003 World Cup run. It is funny seeing how the game has changed so much in a short space of time, with the speed and the structure there is now.

“I wonder how good he would be today. I’m sure he would do alright.”

The more pressing question for many England fans is how good this generation of youngsters can become after winning the junior version of both the Six Nations and World Cup in 2024.

Bracken, who is studying at Loughborough University, made his Saracens debut earlier this season in the Premiership Cup, while Friday appeared in the Premiership for the first time in December, coming off the bench in a victory over Newcastle.

Among the under 20s preparing for their Six Nations opener against Ireland on Thursday, they are now the wise, old heads.

“There are different faces from last time, but I am really enjoying the vibe and brotherhood we have got going,” says Bracken.

“It has almost continued from last season and built again this season.”

From babes-in-arms to brothers-in-arms, they won’t be the last to follow their parents’ stud marks towards the top.