Lock: Joel Kpoku (Saracens) – The 6ft 4in 21-year-old was a rugby league player in his youth but switched to the 15-man code at under-17 level and has made swift strides since signing for the Saracens academy. He has joined an impressive production line that has developed George Kruis, Maro Itoje and Nick Isiekwe into senior England players, and looks set to become a key player for Sarries moving forward.
Lock: Jonny Hill (Exeter Chiefs) – The towering second-row has been thriving of late with Exeter Chiefs, proving himself to be an efficient lineout operator and warrior at the breakdown. Would not let anybody down.
Flanker: Ben Curry (Sale sharks) – Twin brother of Tom, he was called up to the senior England squad by Eddie Jones for their 2017 summer tour of Argentina, but did not make an appearance on the tour. The former England U20 captain never lets Sale down and certainly wouldn’t let his country down if given the call.
Flanker: Jack Willis (Wasps) – Jones was close to giving the flanker his debut in South Africa two years ago until a serious injury intervened, but his latest impressive performance has led to further speculation that he might play a role in England’s autumn campaign.
Number 8: Alex Dombrandt (Harlequins) – He is the natural successor to Billy Vunipola, or someone who can play alongside him. I would hope he has three years now before a World Cup to get into the team. There are not many better in the game at the moment at doing what he does. A future international star for sure.
