"Next Jonny Wilkinson" - Five English wonderkids and where they are now

Here, we look back at five English wonderkids and where their journeys have taken them.

When he first broke through, it felt like England had found something rare. Cokanasiga was huge, rapid and fearless with ball in hand, the sort of wing defenders hate facing. He scored on his Test debut against Japan in 2018 and followed it up with another try against Australia, quickly building real excitement around his potential. A place in the 2019 World Cup squad seemed to cement his rise, and two tries against the United States showed exactly what he offered.

Then came the setbacks. Serious knee injuries repeatedly halted his progress just as he was gaining momentum. Each return has brought flashes of the same power and finishing instinct, including four tries in two matches in 2021. With 12 tries in 12 Tests, his impact when fit has never been in doubt.

There was a time when Barkley looked like the natural successor in England’s midfield. Calm, skilful and composed off the tee, he even played for England before making his senior debut for Bath. Comfortable at fly half or inside centre, he won 23 caps and appeared set to become a long term fixture in the national side.

Yet his career never quite followed that path. A horrific leg break in 2011 disrupted his progress at a crucial stage, and subsequent moves abroad failed to provide lasting stability. By the time London Welsh folded in 2016, his international days were well behind him. He finished his playing career having shown undoubted quality, but without ever fully establishing himself at Test level.

Some youngsters are labelled future stars. Itoje became one. From captaining England Under 20s to Junior World Championship glory in 2014, he combined talent with a strong presence on and off the field. Breaking into the Saracens side brought silverware and responsibility in equal measure.

His England debut in 2016 marked the beginning of a sustained run at the top. Grand Slams, Lions tours and major club honours have followed, alongside a reputation as one of the most influential forwards in the game. Passing 100 international appearances reflects his consistency and importance over the past decade.

Clifford’s early career gathered momentum quickly. As captain of England Under 20s, he led the side to Six Nations and Junior World Cup titles before broadening his experience with England Sevens. By 2016 he was making his senior debut during a Grand Slam campaign and travelling to Australia on tour.

Injuries soon began to interrupt that rise. A series of physical setbacks limited his opportunities, and a persistent shoulder problem eventually forced him to retire at 27. His international career ended with far fewer caps than once seemed likely.

As a young forward, Chisholm’s trajectory pointed firmly upwards. He captained England Under 18s, helped the Under 20s win Six Nations and world titles, and was named World Rugby Young Player of the Year. Powerful and adaptable, he developed into a dependable presence in the pack.

At Harlequins he has delivered consistent performances across multiple positions, earning the trust of coaches and teammates alike. Despite strong club form over several seasons, a senior England call has not come, largely due to intense competition in the back row.