Anthony Watson the latest England star to end international career - Ruck

Anthony Watson the latest England star to end international career

Telegraph Sport has learned that Anthony Watson is in talks with clubs in France and Japan and is considering leaving English rugby after the Rugby World Cup.

Their report suggest a move abroad is now very likely, which could mark the end of his Test career.

Despite this, Watson had a positive impact on England’s Six Nations campaign after coming back from injury, and he even scored against Wales.

He had joined Leicester Tigers last year on a one-year deal after spending nine years at Bath, and had previously revealed that he took a pay cut to secure a contract for the 2022-23 season.

However, the reduced salary cap of £5m in the Gallagher Premiership next season, which is set to return to £6.4m in 2024, is making it difficult for him to stay.

Warren Gatland’s 2023 Lions XV:

Back-three:

15. Hugo Keenan – Ireland

14. Duhan van der Merwe – Scotland

He wrote: “Mack Hansen is very unlucky here but I’m switching Duhan to the right wing. I think he is in much better shape physically than he was when he was with the Lions a couple of years ago. He caused defenders all sorts of problems, carried well and scored some outstanding tries. He has also definitely improved his aerial game, which was something he had to work on.”

11. James Lowe – Ireland

Centre:

13. Huw Jones – Scotland

12. Sione Tuipulotu – Scotland

He wrote: “I was also impressed with the impact Bundee Aki made for Ireland, but Sione has a superb all-around game. He does not just give you good go-forward ball but can make the pass and offload as well.”

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