All Blacks number 8 ready to QUIT to join Steve Borthwick's England

Wednesday, 12 November 2025 at 09:18

byRugby Rucker

According to
The Telegraph, Saracens are in advanced talks to sign former All Black No.8 Hoskins Sotutu, who could offer a long-term solution to England’s long-standing problem position at the back of the scrum.

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Sotutu, 27, is English-qualified through his mother and last represented New Zealand off the bench in the 25-25 draw against England at Twickenham back in November 2022.

By the end of the 2024 autumn international window, Sotutu will have completed his three-year stand-down period and will be eligible to represent either England or Fiji, the latter being the nation his father, Waisake Sotutu, proudly played for.

With his impressive résumé now circulating among Gallagher Premiership clubs, the explosive 6ft 4in, 17st 9lb loose forward appears poised for a move to his maternal homeland.

The Telegraph reports that Saracens are currently leading the race for his signature, though both Newcastle Red Bullsand Gloucester are also believed to be keen on securing his services.

Full Telegraph story here.

Player Bio: Hoskins Sotutu

Age: 27
Height: 6ft 4in (1.93m)
Weight: 17st 9lb (112kg)
Position: Number 8 / Loose forward
Born: Auckland, New Zealand
International caps: 14 (New Zealand)
Eligible for: England, Fiji, New Zealand
Clubs: Auckland, Blues (Super Rugby)

FAVOURITES TO REPLACE STEVE BORTHWICK

Here’s the runners and riders, odds in tow, in true RUCK fashion:

The Old Master – Sir Clive Woodward (100/1)

England’s only World Cup-winning coach remains the touchstone for what success looks like in red and white. Two decades on, Woodward is more pundit than practitioner, yet his authority still carries weight. A romantic pick, but unlikely in the modern RFU setup.

Exeter’s Builder – Rob Baxter (20/1)

Few have shaped an English club more than Baxter, who took Exeter from Championship battlers to Premiership and European champions. Calm, consistent and deeply connected to English rugby, he’s a serious candidate if the RFU want a steady hand after Borthwick.

The Grit Merchant – Steve Diamond (20/1)

Diamond has made a career of toughening up squads, whether at Sale, Worcester or Newcastle. Known for his no-nonsense approach and sharp eye for value, he’d bring edge and discipline. The question: does his style scale up to Test rugby pressure?

The Forwards Fixer – Richard Cockerill (15/1)

Once Leicester’s firebrand hooker, Cockerill has matured into a seasoned coach, now leading Georgia and Black Lion. His international experience and knowledge of the English game make him a fascinating outside shout. Expect scrums, mauls, and plenty of bite.

The Maverick – Michael Cheika (15/1)

Cheika’s year-long stint at Leicester Tigers is coming to a close, with the Wallabies’ 2015 World Cup finalist opting to move on at the end of the 2024/25 season. His fiery passion and proven big-tournament pedigree keep his name in the mix. A proven motivator, but his nomadic coaching career may count against him for the stability England crave.

The Mastermind – Rassie Erasmus (15/1)

Two-time World Cup-winning Springbok boss, tactical innovator, social-media stirrer — Erasmus is one of the sharpest (and most controversial) brains in rugby. Luring him from South Africa would be audacious, but his record speaks for itself.

The Rising Star – Ronan O’Gara (12/1)

The La Rochelle supremo has fast become one of Europe’s most admired coaches, pairing Irish grit with Kiwi tactical nous from his Crusaders stint. Known for fiery touchline passion and smart attacking plans, O’Gara looks destined for a Test gig sooner rather than later.

The Lineout Brain – Geoff Parling (10/1)

Fresh from being confirmed as Michael Cheika’s successor at Leicester Tigers, Parling’s stock has never been higher.

A cerebral lock in his playing days, he could become England’s next forward-thinking head coach in more ways than one.

The Favourite Son – Andy Farrell (5/1)

Ireland’s Grand Slam-winning head coach and 2025 Lions boss, Farrell is perhaps the most coveted leader in world rugby right now. His blend of defensive steel and human touch has transformed Ireland into a powerhouse. Whether he’d swap Dublin for Twickenham is another story.

The Rebuilder – Stuart Lancaster (4/1)

Lancaster has quietly rebuilt his reputation since leaving England in 2015, thriving at Leinster and now in the URC with Connacht. A meticulous planner and player developer, he offers a second-chance narrative the RFU may find compelling. The bookies clearly think so.

Quiz: Name these 10 retro rugby players

Alright, this might sting a bit—but if you’re over 30 and can’t name these iconic rugby legends from the 2000s, we have to ask: were you even watching?

From jaw-dropping tries to unforgettable moments (and yes, some questionable haircuts), these players defined a golden era of the game. If their names don’t instantly come to mind, we suggest a quick trip to YouTube to jog your memory. Trust us, it’s worth it.

Ready to test your knowledge? Let’s see if you’ve still got it. Good luck!

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