BBC Rugby Union: Tom Curry Makes Emphatic Comeback for Sale Sharks
In a highly anticipated semi-final clash at The Rec, Sale Sharks’ Tom Curry made a triumphant return to the rugby pitch, 31 weeks after his last competitive appearance. The dynamic back-rower, who last played for England at the Rugby World Cup in October, seized up during training with the Sharks, requiring an operation to address a troublesome hip issue.
With the score locked at 23-23 in the 46th minute, Sale boss Alex Sanderson opted to throw Curry into the fray, and the England international did not disappoint. Curry wasted no time asserting his physicality, delivering a crunching 58th-minute tackle that sent Bath’s Josh Bayliss tumbling to the ground.
“How good, how good,” the Sale boss beamed when asked about his back-rower’s performance. “Just straight back into it and he probably could have started today, but it’s not really fair on starting him when he has had seven months out. But yeah, it’s a great comeback. I’m really chuffed for him.”
With England’s end-of-season tour to Japan and New Zealand on the horizon, the question remains whether Curry will be fit and ready for international duty. Sanderson believes the 25-year-old is well on his way, stating, “Yeah!” when asked if Curry is international rugby ready. However, the Sale boss acknowledged the need to manage Curry’s workload, emphasizing the importance of preserving the player’s long-term health and career.
As England look to build towards the 2027 Rugby World Cup, Curry’s return to form and fitness will be crucial. The versatile forward has established himself as a key figure in Eddie Jones’ plans, and his ability to seamlessly slot back into the Sharks’ lineup is a positive sign for both club and country.
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