Owen Farrell
Owen Farrell’s return to Saracens from Racing 92 in 2025 has not resulted in an England recall, and at 34, the chances of him adding to his international career appear increasingly slim.
Fin Smith has established himself as the leading option at fly-half, while George Ford continues to provide the experience that once made Farrell such an important figure for England.
With more than 1,200 points from over 100 Tests, Farrell sits among the leading points scorers in Test rugby history and remains the record points scorer for both England and Saracens.
Despite his remarkable record, though, it looks increasingly unlikely that he will play international rugby again.
Ben Spencer
Few players have enjoyed the level of club success achieved by Ben Spencer, yet his international career has never quite matched his achievements for Saracens and Bath.
England now have a growing group of scrum-halves competing for places, with Archie McParland and Lucas Friday emerging as exciting prospects.
Jack van Poortvliet and Alex Mitchell are also established Test options and appear to be ahead of Spencer in Steve Borthwick’s thinking.
Now 34, time is running out for the experienced scrum-half. Despite winning five PREM Rugby titles and three Champions Cups during his club career, a return to the England side looks increasingly unlikely.
Nick Isiekwe
Nick Isiekwe has remained a regular topic of debate among England supporters, but it increasingly feels as though his opportunities at international level could be running out.
The competition for places in the second row is only becoming stronger. Ollie Chessum is firmly established as one of the leading locks in the game, while Alex Coles and Arthur Clark have also emerged as serious options.
With George Martin set to join Isiekwe and Maro Itoje at Saracens, consistent game time could also become harder to secure at club level.
Still only 28, there is time for Isiekwe to develop further and force his way back into contention, but at present, an England return appears unlikely.
