<p><br /> It may have been a stunning year for Leicester Tigers and England star Ben Youngs, but 2011 could be even better for the scrum-half.<br /> </p><p><br /> The 21-year-old shone on his first start for England on the summer tour of Australia, scoring a stunning solo try in the 21-20 win in Sydney.<br /> </p><p><br /> He followed that up with another outstanding display in the autumn game against the Aussies at Twickenham, starting the move on his own line that led to Chris Ashton's memorable try.<br /> </p><p><br /> "This time last year I was struggling to get a regular starting spot for Leicester. I managed to do so and things have progressed faster than I expected," says the Norfolk boy, whose dad Nick also played for England.<br /> </p><p><br /> However, unlike many young sportsmen who get carried away by quick success and acclaim, Youngs remains humble.<br /> </p><p><br /> "Ultimately all I am is a guy who runs around with a ball. We're very lucky to do it at a good level and that people want to come and watch us."<br /> </p><p><br /> He adds: "I keep my head down and keep working hard and try to avoid distractions. I can still go down to a nice pub and have a quiet coke or water."<br /> </p><p><br /> With England possibly a renewed force on the international scene, there will be a lot of excitement entering a World Cup year.<br /> </p><p><br /> But Youngs refuses to get carried away, knowing there is plenty of rugby to play before the tournament begins in New Zealand in September.<br /> </p><p><br /> "I take it one day at a time," Youngs insists.<br /> </p><p><br /> "If I could win the Premiership or Heineken Cup with Leicester that would be fantastic. If I could be involved in the Six Nations and we won it that would be a massive honour and privilege. Then if I could make the plane for the World Cup that would be great...but we'll see."<br /> </p><p><br /> Indeed we will, but whatever happens many rugby fans expect Ben Youngs to continue his rise to rugby stardom in 2011.<br /> </p>
