The latest round of the PREM Rugby season has brought with it a host of winners and losers from an England perspective as Steve Borthwick's squad selection nears. While some players have shone brightly, others have struggled, and the injury news has been particularly cruel for a pair of red-hot stars.
Winners
East Midlands Full-Backs
The East Midlands derby showcased the potential of Freddie Steward and George Furbank, who brought out the best in each other with top-notch displays. Steward, despite being overlooked for the England squad, was at his best against Northampton, showcasing his attacking prowess and strong aerial skills. Furbank, who missed the Six Nations, offered a standard threat as an extra playmaker and added lovely touches in the carry. The England full-back shirt is likely to be worn by one of these two in the summer, and after Saturday's performance, it'll be tough to split them.
Leicester Wing Duo
Ollie Hassell-Collins and Adam Radwan, the form English wingers last year, seem to be getting back to their best against Northampton. Both men were electric, getting the better of Test positional rivals Tommy Freeman and George Hendy. Their synergy on the wings, often swapping positions or working in tandem, is quite beautiful and could be a game-changer for England. Borthwick might want to tap into this dynamic duo.
Tighthead Pair
England is looking light at tighthead ahead of the summer tour, but Afo Fasogbon and Josh Iosefa-Scott have put themselves in the shop window with marauding displays. Both men dominated their respective scrum battles, blended stellar work in the loose, and particularly excelled with ball-in-hand. Borthwick and Tom Harrison would have been delighted by their performances.
Henry Slade
Henry Slade had a big test against a direct England rival, Ollie Lawrence, but aced it. Slade was a rock of consistency in Exeter's win over Bath, injecting intent and pace into their attack with his playmaking skills. His game management in the big moments was key, and his choice to take kicks for goal helped put Bath under pressure. Slade's performance allowed Exeter to really put their foot on Bath's throat in the latter stages of the game.
Back Bolters
Olly Hartley, Paul Brown-Bampoe, and Orlando Bailey showed they can mix it with the best in the competition. Individually, all three men showcased the minerals that suit this England setup. Bailey's deft handling and ability to act as a second ball-player were crucial to Leicester's win. Hartley's punch and ability to cut back against the grain worked wonders for Saracens. Brown-Bampoe showcased his aerial prowess alongside strong carries ball-in-hand. These flashes would have pleased Borthwick, and all three men have been involved with England A, showing they are not a million miles away from the main squad.
Losers
Northampton Saints Contingent
Northampton's defeat at Mattioli Woods Welford Road doesn't do their England contingent any favors. The atmosphere and edge didn't help, but Saints just seemed off the boil. The likes of Alex Mitchell, Hendy, Freeman, Fraser Dingwall, and Fin Smith couldn't bring their recent form to the derby, and Henry Pollock struggled to have his typically impactful display off the bench. By no means have they played their way out of contention, but it was not the barnstorming effort we've come to expect.
Tom Willis
Borthwick would have been stewing watching Tom Willis do his thing for Saracens. Willis has been head and shoulders the best player in the PREM this season, but he can't be picked for England. In this form, Willis could have been a game-changer, but alas, he can't be selected.
Injured Stars
Gabriel Oghre and Billy Searle, both in unbelievable form for their clubs, are likely out of the picture for the summer tour after suffering cruel injuries. They were pushing their names up into the conversation for July selection, but they will now likely miss out entirely. A real shame for both men.
In my opinion, the PREM Rugby season has brought with it a host of exciting players who could shape England's future. While some have shone brightly, others have struggled, and the injury news has been particularly cruel. The battle for places in Steve Borthwick's squad is heating up, and the summer tour promises to be an exciting time for English rugby fans.
