Premiership Standouts Impress Ahead of England Selection
As the thrilling Premiership title race reaches its conclusion, several standout players across the semi-final clashes have done their chances of England selection no harm. Northampton Saints and Bath Rugby secured home wins to book their spot in the Twickenham final, with a host of impressive individual performances.
Based on the close-fought battles, rugby correspondent James While has identified 11 players who have caught the eye of England head coach Steve Borthwick.
Northampton’s Standouts
“Northampton’s Alex Coles has evolved into an abrasive, all-action second row, seamlessly blending his aerial skills with improved leadership around the pack. The 6’8” forward is now firmly in the mix to succeed Courtney Lawes in the England setup.”
The Saints’ hooker Curtis Langdon has been a “bundle of energy, impressing with his work rate, set-piece excellence, and effective ball-carrying.” At 26, he is maturing into a “consistent all-round package” and could leap ahead of other England contenders.
Tighthead prop Trevor Davison has been an “integral part of Northampton’s dominant scrum, showcasing his powerful scrummaging ability.” The former Falcon has also “improved his work rate and ball-handling, making him an intriguing option for Borthwick.”
Northampton’s Ollie Sleightholme has been a “constant threat, utilizing his pace, industry, and finishing prowess to great effect.” His ability to “integrate seamlessly into the Saints’ attacking system makes him an enticing option for England.”
Fly-half Fin Smith has emerged as an “intriguing prospect, blending the control of Owen Farrell and the attacking flair of Marcus Smith.” His “maturity and decision-making have caught the eye, and a debut in Japan or New Zealand could be on the cards.”
Bath’s Standouts
Bath’s Beno Obano has “transformed his game, combining his explosive power with refined technique at loosehead.” The “consistent try-scorer could provide valuable impact off the bench for England.”
Alfie Barbeary continues to “demand an opportunity at the Test level, with his bulldozing carrying and physicality impossible to ignore.” Borthwick must now “assess how to best incorporate the dynamic forward into the national setup.”
Charlie Ewels has “quietly gone about his business, impressing with his relentless work rate, powerful defense, and calm leadership.” The 30-cap lock may be in line for a recall after another strong Premiership campaign.
Sale Standouts
Sale fullback Joe Carpenter has impressed with his “aerial skills and powerful running, cementing his reputation as a prospect worthy of international recognition.” Teammate Tom Curry, the British & Irish Lion, was a “physical menace on his return from injury, underlining his importance to the national team.”
Finally, Sale winger Tom Roebuck has continued to impress with his “dominant aerial presence and powerful running.” His “physicality and try-scoring ability make him a compelling option for Borthwick to consider.”
As the national team prepare for their upcoming tours, the form and performances of these 11 players have undoubtedly caught the eye of the England coaching staff, providing Borthwick with a wealth of options to consider ahead of the international fixtures.
đź”— Source
