The latest round of the PREM Rugby season has provided an intriguing insight into the potential England squad for the upcoming summer tour, with some players shining brightly and others facing challenges. Here's a breakdown of the winners and losers from an England perspective, offering a glimpse into the selection conundrum that Steve Borthwick faces.
Winners
East Midlands Full-Backs
The East Midlands derby showcased the prowess of Freddie Steward and George Furbank, who are in contention for the England full-back shirt. Steward, despite being overlooked for the Six Nations, delivered a stellar performance against Northampton, showcasing his attacking prowess and strong aerial skills. Furbank, who missed the Six Nations due to injury, also impressed with his playmaking abilities and carries.
The competition between these two full-backs is intense, and their performances on Saturday will have caught Borthwick's eye. The summer tour might just be their chance to prove themselves.
Leicester Wing Duo
Ollie Hassell-Collins and Adam Radwan, the Leicester wing duo, are making a strong case for themselves. Their electric displays against Northampton, outshining Test positional rivals Tommy Freeman and George Hendy, have not gone unnoticed. The pair's synergy, often swapping wings and combining their skills, is a sight to behold and could be a game-changer for England.
Tighthead Pair
Afo Fasogbon and Josh Iosefa-Scott have emerged as strong contenders for the tighthead position, filling the void left by injured players. Their dominant displays against a strong scrum unit, coupled with stellar work in the loose and ball-in-hand, have impressed Borthwick and Tom Harrison. The England A duo's performance suggests they are ready for the international stage.
Henry Slade
Henry Slade's performance against Bath was a testament to his consistency and playmaking skills. He injected pace and intent into Exeter's attack, showcasing his ability to link up with teammates and manage the game effectively. Slade's game management, especially in the crucial moments, was a standout feature.
Back Bolters
Olly Hartley, Paul Brown-Bampoe, and Orlando Bailey have once again demonstrated their versatility and impact. Individually, they have shown the qualities that align with England's set-up. Bailey's handling and second ball-playing skills were crucial for Leicester, while Hartley's punch and ability to cut back made a significant impact for Saracens. Brown-Bampoe's aerial prowess and carries further strengthened his case.
Losers
Northampton Saints Contingent
The Northampton Saints suffered a disappointing defeat, which could have negative implications for their England players. The team's overall performance was underwhelming, with several players, including Alex Mitchell, Hendy, and Freeman, falling short against their positional rivals. The atmosphere and edge might have played a role, but it's a concern for Borthwick.
Tom Willis
Tom Willis, a Bordeaux-bound player, has been a standout performer in the PREM this season. His dominance in the tight and driving force for Saracens have been remarkable. However, his absence from the England squad is a notable loss, as he could have been a game-changer.
Injured Stars
The season has been cruel to Gabriel Oghre and Billy Searle, who have suffered injuries that will keep them out for the rest of the season. Their impressive form for their clubs and the potential for a July selection have been dashed. The loss of these players is a significant setback for the England squad.
As the PREM Rugby season progresses, the England selection picture becomes clearer, with Borthwick having to balance the performances of these players and make tough decisions. The summer tour promises to be an exciting prospect, with several players vying for a spot in the squad.
