The 19-year-old Cheshunt Rugby Club player could take to the field at some of England's most iconic venues, or Wales' Millenium Stadium, if he makes the cut for the showpiece event.

Mulholland was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, before moving to Cuffley. He played for England up to U18 level and was an academy player for Saracens.

The teenager, who is a first-year economics undergraduate at the University of Bath, is one of four scrum-halves selected by the USA Eagles head coach Mike Tolkin in the build-up to the eagerly-awaited competition, which is now less than 100 days away.

He earned his surprise call after impressing with the Junior All-Americans and is now determined to secure a place in the final World Cup squad.

"The news of my selection in the 50-man squad for the Eagles was a complete surprise," he admitted.

"For me the World Cup squad wasn't even on my mind, but since hearing the news it's all I'm working towards.

"It's a huge honour and one which I won't take lightly. As a kid growing up the World Cup was something you always looked forward to seeing and now being actually part of it is somewhat surreal, it still hasn't sunk in.

"I'm delighted to have been picked by Mike Tolkin and his team, and am looking forward to training hard, competing for my place and the future prospects and opportunities."

The USA Eagles start their World Cup preparations with the Pacific Nations Cup before playing a series of friendlies. Among their opponents will be Australia, who will train at the University of Bath in the build-up to the tournament.

The squad is expected to be cut after the friendlies against Harlequins and the Wallabies in late August.

Dom Tripp, the assistant coach at Bath, added: "Louis has been a key member of the Bath University Rugby Club in his first year of studying.

"His performances keep going from strength to strength and as a club we are proud of Louis' inclusion into the wider USA Eagles squad. He carries the support of all the club and we hope he makes the cut for the 30-man squad."

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