Shocking Henry Pollock clash sparks citing complaint and likely lengthy ban

The former France captain, 32, was caught on camera appearing to grab the young England back-rower by the throat in the aftermath of Bordeaux’s 28-20 triumph.

European Professional Club Rugby (EPCR) confirmed that Poirot has been charged by citing commissioner Tim Lowry for "an act contrary to good sportsmanship" under law 9.27 – an offence deemed dangerous and potentially capable of causing serious harm.

The French front-rower is now set to face a disciplinary hearing via video link on Thursday. If found guilty, he could face a ban.

Northampton boss Phil Dowson didn’t mince his words post-match, calling the incident “uncalled for and out of order,” and insisting there had been foul play.

England fly-half Fin Smith also weighed in, questioning the bizarre timing of the altercation:
“They were after him [Pollock]. I don’t think they liked him. I remember they all sort of charged at him and were trying to get hold of him.
"I’m surprised that if you’ve just won a European Cup, the first thing you want to do is start a fight with a 20-year-old. I thought that was interesting.”

More to follow as the story develops.

Here's a look at six England stars who could make a major international switch before the 2027 Rugby World Cupin Australia.

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The most high-profile name on this list, Manu Tuilagi, has long been the bulldozing presence in England's midfield. Born in Samoa, the 33-year-old is eligible to represent the Pacific Island nation after completing the three-year stand-down rule.

With his England career coming to an end last year and the next generation of centres taking over, Tuilagi could provide Samoa with a major boost in 2027 if he stays fit during his time in France.

Bio:
Position: Centre
Age: 33
England caps: 60+
Club: Sale Sharks
Born in: Fogapoa, Samoa

Dan Kelly has one cap for England, earned under Eddie Jones in 2021. However, because more than three years will have passed by the time of the 2027 Rugby World Cup, and since he has Irish heritage through his Dublin-born mother, he would be eligible to switch to Ireland under World Rugby’s revised eligibility laws.

Ireland could be a serious option if his international pathway with England remains blocked.

Bio:
Position: Centre
Age: 23
England caps: 0
Club: Leicester Tigers
Eligible through: Irish mother

Having fallen out of favour with England after brief involvement under Borthwick, Ollie Hassell-Collins may look across the border for international redemption. Born in Reading but with Welsh heritage through his grandfather, the powerful winger could qualify for Wales by ancestry.

If he makes a move to a Welsh region in the next couple of years, the switch could become very real.

Bio:
Position: Wing
Age: 26
England caps: 2
Club: Leicester Tigers
Eligible through: Welsh grandfather

Veteran number eight Billy Vunipola has been a central figure in English rugby for a decade, but with younger options like Ben Earl and Tom Willis rising, his time in white came to an end when he joined Montpellier last summer. The powerhouse was born in Australia and has Tongan heritage, meaning he’s eligible for either nation.

A return to family roots with Tonga or a move to the Wallabies would certainly shake things up ahead of 2027.

Bio:
Position: Number 8
Age: 32
England caps: 70+
Club: Saracens
Born in: Sydney, Australia
Eligible for: Tonga (ancestry), Australia (birth)

Like his younger brother Billy, Mako Vunipola is also eligible to switch to Tonga. The veteran prop, born in Wellington, New Zealand to Tongan parents, hasn’t featured for England since retiring following the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

At 34, his international days may not be over just yet — especially with Tonga looking to add experience and grit to their forward pack.

Bio:
Position: Loosehead prop
Age: 34
England caps: 70+
Club: Saracens
Born in: Wellington, New Zealand
Eligible for: Tonga (parents)

One of the most underrated utility backs in English rugby, Alex Lozowski qualifies for Italy through his father, former rugby league international Rob Lozowski. With Italy continuing to build their depth, the door could open for the Saracens star — especially with his England career stalled.

He’s already played for the Barbarians and would offer Italy experience, flair, and versatility.

Bio:
Position: Fly-half/Centre/Fullback
Age: 31
England caps: 5
Club: Saracens
Eligible through: Italian father

With World Rugby's rules now opening the door to multi-national careers, don’t be surprised if a few of these stars show up in unfamiliar jerseys come 2027. Whether it's the pull of heritage, game time, or one last shot at the global stage — the future could be red, green, or gold for these former England internationals.