"Different gravy" - Three England bolters Steve Borthwick needs to call-up for World Cup
Rugby NewsSunday, 09 April 2023 at 20:03
England's head coach, Steve Borthwick, has made it clear that he expects players who were not part of the Six Nations squad to prove themselves worthy of a place in his World Cup plans.
The team will begin their World Cup campaign in France against Argentina in Marseille on September 9th.
Below are some players who were not involved in the Six Nations but have the potential to strengthen England's squad.
#1. Tom Pearson - London Irish
The back-rower from London Irish has been in outstanding form for the Exiles this season, excelling in every aspect of the game.
Although Borthwick will have numerous choices in the back-row, Pearson's ability to play in all three positions and his reliability in the lineouts make him a valuable asset.
Pearson is a tough defender, and he also performs well in the breakdown, averaging over one turnover per match in the Premiership.
#2. Tom Willis - Bordeaux Begles
The 23-year-old, who has been playing for Bordeaux after leaving Wasps is one of the finest back-row prospects in the country and will join Saracens next season.
The former England Under 20’s captain will spend the remainder of the season in the Top 14, and then make the move back to the Gallagher Premiership in the summer on a long-term deal.
Willis spoke only last month about his ambition of playing for England together with his brother.
#3. Will Evans - Harlequins
He joined Harlequins from Leicester Tigers for the 2019/20 season.
The flanker enjoyed a stellar rise in the closing stages of the 2015/16 season, making his senior debut for Leicester Tigers against Gloucester. He went on to make 26 appearances for Leicester, eight as a starter.
A standout for England at youth level, Evans was named in the U20 World Championship Dream Team in 2016. He was a member of England’s senior EPS squad of 45 back in 2016 at the tender age of 19.
Evans made 21 appearances in his debut season with Harlequins and added a further 16 in his second season in the club where he finished the Premiership season with more turnovers (29) than anyone other player.
Injury denied him a chance to feature in the Premiership Final for Harlequins, but the flanker played a pivotal role in their journey to the showpiece event.
Will Evans of Harlequins breaks through the tackle of Stu Townsend of Exeter Chiefs during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby match between Exeter Chiefs and Harlequins at Sandy Park on 25th September 2022. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK
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