#4. Guy Pepper
Pepper appeared to be omnipresent during the match against Portugal, illustrating why he commands such high regard from numerous quarters.
Dubbed the “Jackal king,” Pepper follows in the footsteps of his father Martin, who notably represented Harlequins and England B. He received his education at Barnard Castle School before making a splash in the Premiership last season with Newcastle Falcons, tallying three tries in seven appearances.
England coach Steve Borthwick holds Pepper in high esteem, with the Harrogate native benefitting from mentorship by 2003 World Cup winner Richard Hill. Pepper’s ascent to earning a full cap for England is seen as a matter of ‘when’ rather than ‘if.’
This summer, Pepper is slated to leave the Falcons to join Bath, opting for their offer over those from Bristol Bears and Exeter Chiefs.