"Reinforcements" - England set to call-up FIVE players including former All Black

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A mix of returning internationals, residency-qualified players and overseas stars potentially coming back into the selection frame means England’s options could expand significantly over the next two seasons.

Here are five players who could strengthen Borthwick’s squad.

Former All Blacks No.8 Hoskins Sotutu could become one of the most intriguing additions to England’s player pool.

The powerful back-rower, who won 14 caps for New Zealand, is set to join Newcastle Falcons in the Prem. Sotutu qualifies for England through his English mother and has not played for the All Blacks since 2022.

Under World Rugby regulations, players can switch nations after a three-year stand-down period if they qualify through birth or family heritage. That means Sotutu could soon become eligible to represent England.

A dynamic carrier with strong offloading ability and a proven try-scoring record from the base of the scrum, Sotutu would offer England a genuine Test-level option at No.8 should he choose Borthwick’s side over Fiji, whom he also qualifies for through his father.

Bristol Bears centre Benhard Janse van Rensburg could also enter the England frame once his eligibility is confirmed.

The South African-born midfielder has been one of the Prem’s most powerful centres since arriving in England with London Irish in 2021 before moving to Bristol following Irish’s collapse.

Despite qualifying through residency, Janse van Rensburg’s international future was initially blocked because he had appeared for South Africa’s Under-20 side, which at the time was designated as the country’s second national team.

However, England successfully appealed to World Rugby — with Borthwick pushing the case — clearing the path for the centre to represent England once he completes the residency requirement.

Known for his explosive ball carrying and physical presence, he would give England a direct, hard-running option in midfield.

Joe Marchant’s return to the Prem has already reopened the door to England selection.

The centre spent two seasons in France with Stade Français after the 2023 World Cup but has returned to England with Sale Sharks, making him eligible again under the RFU’s overseas selection rules.

Marchant previously earned 26 England caps and was a regular under Eddie Jones. His pace, defensive awareness and ability to cover centre or wing make him a valuable and experienced option in the backline.

If he rediscovers his best form with Sale, a return to the England setup could follow quickly.

Jack Willis remains one of England’s standout players currently based abroad.

The flanker joined Toulouse after Wasps collapsed in 2022 and has since become one of the Top 14’s most dominant breakdown specialists, helping the French giants win major honours.

Because of England’s policy restricting selection to Prem-based players, Willis has been unavailable for international duty.

However, reports suggest his contract contains a clause that could allow him to return to England ahead of the 2027 World Cup. There has also been speculation linking him with a potential switch to Ireland through family heritage.

Should he return to the Prem, England would regain one of the most effective jackals in the game.

Kyle Sinckler could also return to the England fold before the next World Cup.

The experienced prop moved to Toulon in France, which currently places him outside England’s selection policy. However, Sinckler has previously indicated that he plans to return to England in time to push for selection ahead of the 2027 tournament.

With more than 60 caps and extensive Test experience, his return would add leadership and depth to England’s front row.

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