The Leicester Tigers No8 played all three games in this summer’s Saxons campaign, leading the team as captain in each game, culminating in the final victory over Canada at Worcester on Saturday.
“It was a good battle, though it was a bit scrappy and we have certainly played better in the tournament,” Crane said.
“But it was still a cup final and we won by 30 points so it was a good result and a good end to the tournament.”
Crane, named Most Valuable Player in the 2009 Churchill Cup, was never on the losing side in three cup campaigns in a Saxons shirt.
“It was a good team effort right through the four weeks with the Saxons,” he said after Saturday’s 37-6 win over Canada.
“The way the boys came together and gelled in a short period is a credit to the team and to the management.
“There are guys pushing their claims for the World Cup squad and guys looking for recognition beyond the World Cup so either way everyone has had something to play for and everybody wants to make an impression because this can be stepping stone.”
After a season disrupted by knee and ankle injuries, Crane will now kick back for a few weeks before his return for pre-season training.
“My thinking was to come here and show I can lead a team and play well with younger guys around me,” he said.
“It was good to play some enjoyable rugby with not so much pressure on. It was a great tournament to play in and get to see how we performed in all three games.
“My body needs a break now. It was a big ask playing all three games after the season I’ve had, but I’ve come through it unscathed and now I’m looking forward to a few weeks off before getting into pre-season.
“We know the opening period of the season is going to be very important with the World Cup guys away. We want to be in a decent position when they come back.”
