During the Saracens’ Premiership clash with Harlequins, a contentious incident arose when the television match official opted not to intervene in a potential case of foul play.
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Following Juan Martin Gonzalez’s seventh try, co-commentator Austin Healey observed a situation off the ball involving Owen Farrell being tackled by a Harlequins player just before Gonzalez’s score, prompting Healey to suggest a review might be warranted.
Healey noted, “Owen Farrell appears to be upset, and it’s worth another look. (Stephan) Lewies seems to enter the ruck with his knees,” during TNT Sports’ coverage. “I believe number six enters the ruck very late with both knees. The point of contact with Farrell could be significant.”
However, TMO Stuart Terheege, stationed in the truck, seemingly chose not to let Healey’s comments influence his decision-making process.
Terheege seemed to express, “The challenge now is that it appears Healey has initiated the review. The issue I face now is that it seems Austin has instigated this.”
THREE PLAYERS BORTHWICK SHOULD CALL-UP THIS SUMMER:
England and the Brave Blossoms will face off in their first ever test hosted in Tokyo, Japan this year in the Lipovitan D Challenge Cup on Saturday, 22 June 2024. The two nations have played three Test matches against one another but this will be the first time Japan has the home field advantage.
The Roses will then face New Zealand in Dunedin on July 6 and at Eden Park a week later. Two mouthwatering occasions not to be missed as England will seek to beat last year’s Rugby World Cup runner-up.
Below, we look at three players Borthwick should call-up.
#1. Cadan Murley
Harlequins’ winger Murley burst onto the scene in 2018, swiftly solidifying his place in the Premiership club’s starting lineup. Since then, he’s been an integral part of the team, notably contributing to their triumph in the 2021 Gallagher Premiership.
Despite being just 24 years old, Murley boasts an impressive 106 appearances for his club, with 48 tries to his name. A striking average of 0.5 tries per game cements his status as one of the most lethal wingers in global club rugby.
Murley’s talent was evident early on when he represented England at the U18 level in 2017, showcasing his scoring prowess against formidable opponents like France and Ireland. He furthered his international journey by donning the English jersey at the U20s level as well.
Speaking on Murley, Borthwick said: “Cadan Murley has an ability to score tries and find his way to the try line. He can beat defenders in. the smallest space possible, has power to be able to come off both feet, plays at 14 and 11, and then accelerate in such a small space.”