Let's dive into the world of English rugby and explore the winners and losers as we anticipate Steve Borthwick's squad selection. This is an exciting time for rugby enthusiasts, as the PREM season concludes and the focus shifts to the national team.
Winners
Full-Backs on Fire
One of the most intriguing battles is unfolding between Freddie Steward and George Furbank, two exceptional full-backs. Despite Steward's recent exclusion from the England squad, he put on a masterclass against Northampton, showcasing his improved attacking skills and solid aerial presence. Furbank, too, delivered an impressive display, offering his unique playmaking abilities and powerful carries. It's a tough call for Borthwick, but these two are certainly in the running for the summer tour.
Wing Wonders
Ollie Hassell-Collins and Adam Radwan, last year's top English wingers, are back with a bang. Their electric performance against Northampton, outshining their rivals Tommy Freeman and George Hendy, has put them back on Borthwick's radar. Their synergy and ability to swap wings seamlessly make them a dynamic duo, and a potential asset for England.
Tighthead Trio
England's tighthead prop situation is an interesting one. With Will Stuart and Trevor Davison injured, Afo Fasogbon and Josh Iosefa-Scott have stepped up. Their dominant scrum performances and stellar loose play have caught the eye. Joe Heyes also had a solid weekend, but Fasogbon and Iosefa-Scott seem to fit the mold of what England is seeking.
Henry Slade's Masterclass
Henry Slade faced a tough test against Ollie Lawrence, but he excelled. His consistent playmaking, injecting pace and intent, was a key factor in Exeter's win over Bath. Slade's game management and ability to link up with his teammates in crucial moments were impressive. He certainly made a strong case for his inclusion in the England squad.
Backs on the Rise
Olly Hartley, Paul Brown-Bampoe, and Orlando Bailey continue to impress. Their individual skills and suitability to the England setup are evident. Hartley's punch and cutting ability, Brown-Bampoe's aerial prowess, and Bailey's handling and ball-playing skills have all caught Borthwick's attention. Their involvement with England A shows they're not far off the pace.
Losers
Northampton's Struggle
Northampton's defeat against Leicester doesn't bode well for their England contingent. The likes of Alex Mitchell, Hendy, Freeman, and Dingwall were outshone by their rivals, and even Fin Smith and Henry Pollock had an off day. It's a concern for Borthwick, as these players need to step up their game ahead of the summer tour.
Tom Willis' Absence
Tom Willis, the head and shoulders above the rest in the PREM this season, is a notable absentee for England. His performance for Saracens this weekend was yet another reminder of what England is missing out on. Borthwick must be frustrated, as Willis could have been a game-changer.
Cruel Injuries
The news of Gabriel Oghre and Billy Searle's injuries is a blow. Both players were in red-hot form and were pushing for selection, but their season-ending injuries are a cruel twist. It's a real shame, as they were certainly in the conversation for the July squad.
Deeper Analysis
The battle for positions in the England squad is intense, and it's fascinating to see how players respond to the pressure. The winners and losers list is a snapshot of a dynamic and ever-changing landscape. Borthwick has some tough decisions to make, and the upcoming fixtures will provide further insights.
Conclusion
As we reflect on the winners and losers, it's clear that the PREM season has provided a platform for some exceptional talent to shine. The battle for England's squad selection is a testament to the depth and quality of English rugby. While some players have seized their opportunities, others face an uphill battle to regain their place. It's an exciting time for rugby fans, as we eagerly await Borthwick's final squad announcement.
