In the world of English rugby, the recent PREM Rugby season has provided an intriguing glimpse into the future of the national team. As Steve Borthwick finalizes his squad selection, let's delve into the winners and losers, and the implications for England's rugby landscape.
Winners
Full-Backs: A Tough Choice
The full-back position is shaping up to be a fascinating battle. Freddie Steward and George Furbank, both from the East Midlands, put on a masterclass in their derby match. Steward, despite being overlooked for the Six Nations, showcased his attacking prowess and strong aerial skills. Furbank, too, impressed with his playmaking abilities and meter-making contributions. It's a tough call for Borthwick, as both players are in top form.
Wingers: Electric Duo
Ollie Hassell-Collins and Adam Radwan, last year's form wingers, are back with a bang. Their electric performance against Northampton, outshining Test rivals Tommy Freeman and George Hendy, has put them back in the spotlight. Their synergy and ability to swap wings or work in tandem is a unique asset, and Borthwick might just want to capitalize on this dynamic duo.
Tighthead Props: Filling the Void
England's tighthead prop position has been a concern with injuries to Will Stuart and Trevor Davison. However, Afo Fasogbon and Josh Iosefa-Scott have stepped up, dominating their scrum battles and showcasing stellar work in open play. Joe Heyes also had a solid weekend, but Fasogbon and Iosefa-Scott seem to fit the mold of what England is seeking.
Henry Slade: Consistency Pays Off
Henry Slade faced a tough test against Ollie Lawrence, and he delivered. His consistency, playmaking skills, and game management were key in Exeter's win over Bath. Slade's ability to link up with Stephen Varney and Harvey Skinner and his strategic decision-making under pressure make him a valuable asset for England.
Backs on the Rise
Olly Hartley, Paul Brown-Bampoe, and Orlando Bailey continue to impress, showing they can compete with the best. Their individual skills and experience with England A suggest they're not far off the radar. Borthwick will have some tough decisions to make, as these players are certainly in the conversation for the summer tour.
Losers
Northampton Saints: A Cause for Concern
Northampton's defeat against Leicester is a worrying sign for their England contingent. The likes of Alex Mitchell, George Hendy, Tommy Freeman, and Fraser Dingwall were outshone by their positional rivals. Fin Smith and Henry Pollock also had an off day. While it could be a blip, it's a concern for Borthwick ahead of the summer tour.
Tom Willis: A Bitter Pill to Swallow
Tom Willis, bound for Bordeaux, continues to excel for Saracens. His performance against Northampton was yet another reminder of what England is missing. In top form, Willis could have been a game-changer, but his unavailability due to his move is a cruel twist.
Injured Stars: A Cruel Blow
Gabriel Oghre and Billy Searle, in red-hot form, have suffered cruel injuries that will keep them out for the rest of the season. This is a massive blow for both players, who were pushing for a spot in the July selection. Their absence is a significant loss for England.
Deeper Analysis
The winners and losers list provides an interesting insight into the competitive nature of English rugby. The full-back and winger positions are particularly intriguing, with multiple players in top form. The tighthead prop battle and the depth in the backline are also positive signs for England. However, the injuries to key players like Oghre and Searle, and the absence of Tom Willis, are significant setbacks.
Conclusion
As the PREM Rugby season draws to a close, the winners and losers list offers a glimpse into the future of English rugby. The competition for places is fierce, and Borthwick has some tough decisions to make. While there are some concerns, particularly with injuries, the overall picture is positive. The depth and talent within the English rugby system are evident, and with careful selection, England can look forward to a successful summer tour.
