“Different captain ” – Warren Gatland reveals his five nailed-on starters if he was England boss

Thursday, 23 February 2023 at 18:11

byRugby Rucker

Wales boss Warren Gatland, who was linked with replacing Eddie Jones, listed his five standout England players late last year.

RUCK’s 2023 Six Nations content powered by ISUZU.

#1. Freddie Steward

Gatland wrote: " Freddie is exceptional in the air and I also really like the way he has been developing as a full-back. He offers an attacking threat, and scores tries.

"My one bit of advice from a defensive point of view is that for Tom Wright’s try in the third Test, Freddie should have gone hard at a 45-degree angle to close the space down and prevent Wright from finding support from Nic White."

Freddie Steward of England goes over for a try during the Autumn Nations Match between England and Australia at Twickenham on 13 November 2021. Photo: Micah Crook/PPAUK

#2. Owen Farrell

Gatland wrote: "I feel that Owen has done really well at 12 and gives us that ability to play a 10/12 kicking combination and has loads of Test-match experience."

Adam Radwan (Newcastle Falcons, 1 cap) and Owen Farrell (Saracens, 93 caps) during England Rugby training session at The Lensbury Hotel, Teddington, London on 28 Sept 2021. Photo: Phil Mingo/PPAUK

#3. Ellis Genge

Gatland wrote: "Ellis just edges it for me. He has matured with the captaincy at Leicester and his ball carrying is explosive and set-piece is very strong."

Ellis Genge of England Rugby is tackled by Will Rowlands of Wales during the Six Nations Championship match between England and Wales at Twickenham Stadium, Twickenham, London on February 26th 2021. - PHOTO: Phil Mingo/PPAUK

#4. Jamie George

Gatland wrote: " Jamie gets the nod because of his experience of playing big moments under pressure. He has done well to force his way back into the England side and his set-piece is excellent."

#5. Courtney Lawes

Gatland wrote: "I have been so impressed with Courtney. The biggest compliment I can pay to Courtney is that I would make him my captain with some great leaders to support him.'

Courtney Lawes, Captain of England celebrates after winning during the Autumn Nations Match between England and Tonga at Twickenham Stoop on 6 November 2021. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK

Match officials confirmed for this weekend, including Wales vs England referee

BREAKING: Six Bristol Bears players sign new deals