Ollie Hassell-Collins, the English winger, has expressed his willingness to potentially represent Wales in 2026.
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Despite earning two caps for England during last year’s Six Nations, the 25-year-old hasn’t been included in Steve Borthwick’s squad since then. Notably, he was absent from England A’s recent triumph over Portugal.
Ahead of this year’s Six Nations, Gatland had mentioned Hassell-Collins several times, especially during the discussion surrounding another dual-qualified winger, Immanuel Feyi-Waboso.
“I have seen Gatland’s interview,” Hassell-Collins told the Telegraph.
“I’ve got two caps for England, and obviously I’m English. But if I don’t see anything in the next few years then it’s definitely something that I would consider.
“I would qualify [for Wales] the year of the World Cup – that is, if he still wants me. Wales is still part of who I am.
“My grandma was Welsh and I still have family over there. It’s still a part of me – and I’d never turn it down – but for now it’s England for me.”
England legend picks his team to play Ireland, he’s selected Ben Earl at centre
Stuart Barnes, the esteemed rugby commentator and former England fly-half, is known for his willingness to offer unconventional perspectives without hesitation.
Writing in the Times this morning, Barnes has elevated his approach even further, suggesting a daring selection strategy for Steve Borthwick to consider before his team faces Ireland at Twickenham in the fourth round of the Six Nations.
Ben Earl at inside-centre:
“So I am picking him at inside centre. He can slip back to No 8 for the odd attacking scrum and link up like a back-row forward.” Barnes writes before going on to offer justification for the move.
“If anyone thinks England don’t need to think radically after the constant failure to ignite under Borthwick, they are condemning England’s fans to dreary wins against weak teams and disappointment against superior sides.”
