Let's dive into the world of English rugby and explore the winners and losers from a recent round of PREM Rugby action, with a particular focus on the implications for the national team. It's an exciting time as Steve Borthwick's squad selection nears, and some players are certainly making their mark.
Winners
Full-Backs on Fire
One of the most intriguing battles is unfolding at full-back. Freddie Steward and George Furbank, both from the East Midlands, put on a masterclass in their derby match. Steward, despite being overlooked for the England shirt recently, showcased his attacking prowess and strong aerial game. Furbank, who has also faced England setbacks, brought his A-game with his playmaking skills and impressive 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 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 switch wings or work in tandem is a beautiful sight, and it's a tactic Borthwick might want to consider.
Tighthead Talent
With injuries to Will Stuart and Trevor Davison, England are looking for tighthead options. Afo Fasogbon and Josh Iosefa-Scott have stepped up, dominating their scrum battles and showcasing their skills in open play. Joe Heyes also had a solid weekend, but Fasogbon and Iosefa-Scott seem to fit the bill for England's future plans. Borthwick and Tom Harrison must be pleased with their performances.
Henry Slade's Consistency
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 his teammates and his strategic kicking choices put Bath under pressure. It's a big tick for Slade in the England selection process.
Backs on the Rise
Olly Hartley, Paul Brown-Bampoe, and Orlando Bailey continue to impress. Their individual skills and ability to mix it up with the best in the competition have caught Borthwick's eye. All three have England A experience, and they could be in the conversation for the summer squad. It's a competitive field, but these players are certainly making their case.
Losers
Northampton's Struggles
Northampton's defeat against Leicester doesn't bode well 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 off days. It's a concern for the England boss, especially with the summer tour approaching.
Tom Willis' Absence
Tom Willis, the Bordeaux-bound number eight, continues to shine for Saracens. His performance this weekend was yet another reminder of what England are missing. In his current form, Willis could have been a game-changer, but unfortunately, he's not eligible for selection. It's a tough pill to swallow for Borthwick.
Injured Stars
The news of Gabriel Oghre and Billy Searle's injuries is a cruel blow. Both players were in red-hot form and were pushing for July selection. Their absence is a real shame and a major loss for England's summer plans.
Deeper Analysis
The PREM Rugby season is providing a fascinating insight into England's squad selection. While some players are making their mark, others are facing setbacks. The full-back and wing positions are particularly intriguing, with a tight race for spots. The tighthead situation is also a concern, with injuries adding to the challenge. Borthwick has some tough decisions to make, and the upcoming fixtures will be crucial in his selection process.
Conclusion
As we reflect on the winners and losers, it's clear that the PREM Rugby season is a crucial testing ground for England's hopefuls. While some players are seizing their opportunities, others are facing challenges. The injuries to Oghre and Searle are a cruel twist, but it opens doors for others to step up. Borthwick's squad selection will be a delicate balance of form, experience, and potential, and the upcoming matches will be pivotal in his decision-making process.
