Jack Willis Set for England Return in Build-Up to 2027 Rugby World Cup

However, his continued commitment to playing in France has rendered him unavailable for England selection under the RFU’s stringent policy barring overseas-based players.

Despite being one of the standout performers in French rugby, the 27-year-old’s World Cup hopes are on ice—unless the RFU makes a U-turn ahead of Australia 2027.

But according to the Telegraph, a potential lifeline exists: a break clause in Jack Willis’ Toulouse contract could allow him to sign for a Premiership club for the 2027-28 season, potentially making him eligible for England’s campaign in Australia.

Previously linked with Bristol Bears, Leicester Tigers, Saracens, and most recently Newcastle Red Bulls following their takeover, Jack Willis’ current four-year deal highlights just how at home he feels in Toulouse. The club has helped Jack Willis’ family, including his two young children, settle comfortably in France.

Asked about representing Steve Borthwick’s side again, Jack Willis’ respect for Toulouse is palpable. He wants to repay the faith the French club has shown him.

"I would love to (play for England)," Jack Willis told the Mail Online. "It's something you dream of as a little kid. It's not something you ever let go of. It's not me who decides the rules. When I lost my job, there wasn't an opportunity (in England) that was feasible for me.

"I then got the opportunity with Toulouse and I feel like I wanted to give back that loyalty that was shown to me. And that's what I've tried to do with each match. I'm loving life out here. But as it stands, the rule is I've signed a long-term contract here, I can't play for England."

Jack Willis’ rise from Wasps to Toulouse has been remarkable. After Wasps entered administration in October 2022, Jack Willis was made redundant along with all other players and coaching staff. He joined Toulouse in November 2022 and quickly became a linchpin, captaining the side and leading them to multiple titles, including the 2024 Champions Cup and the 2025 Top 14 crown.

In April 2025, he was nominated for the Champions Cup Player of the Year and earned Man of the Match honours in both the Round of 16 and the quarterfinals. Despite his success in France, the RFU’s overseas player policy continues to block Jack Willis’ path back to England.

Each of the six pools featured a team from Bands 1, 2, 3 and 4.

The confirmed Bands based on rankings were:

Band 1: South Africa, New Zealand, England, Ireland, France, Argentina
Band 2: Australia, Fiji, Scotland, Italy, Wales, Japan
Band 3: Georgia, Uruguay, Spain, USA, Chile, Tonga
Band 4: Samoa, Portugal, Romania, Hong Kong China, Zimbabwe, Canada

New Zealand – Perennial contenders with flair, power and unmatched rugby IQ.
Australia – Unpredictable but dangerous, capable of brilliance on their day.
Chile – Fast-improving newcomers bringing passion and fearless physicality.
Hong Kong China – Skillful, energetic, and eager to prove themselves on the global stage.

South Africa – Brutal, relentless, and brutally efficient—never count them out.
Italy – Developing rapidly, mixing strong set-piece work with expanding ambition.
Georgia – Scrum specialists with raw forward strength and growing all-round polish.
Romania – Proud and powerful, known for toughness and unwavering fight.

Argentina – Dynamic, crafty, and fiercely competitive with a never-say-die spirit.
Fiji – Magical offloads, searing pace, and unique unpredictability.
Spain – Determined climbers building consistency and confidence every year.
Canada – Physical and committed, working to regain their traditional sharpness.

Ireland – Well-drilled, intelligent, and ruthlessly efficient across the park.
Scotland – Creative attackers with growing confidence and slick backline play.
Uruguay – Tenacious, organized, and fearless against bigger rugby nations.
Portugal – Exciting, fast-paced, and thriving with a young, fearless core.

France – Electric, unpredictable, and capable of brilliance from anywhere.
Japan – High-tempo, disciplined, and tactically sharp—they never stop moving.
USA – Athletic and physical, with a growing pool of exciting talent.
Samoa – Bone-shaking tackles, powerful runners, and trademark island flair.

England – Structured, strategic, and capable of grinding down any opponent.
Wales – Proud, passionate, and dangerous when the momentum swings their way.
Tonga – Heavy hitters with explosive power and fearless intensity.
Zimbabwe – Energetic and ambitious, bringing speed and spirit to every contest.

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!