England head coach Steve Borthwick is reportedly considering a surprise call-up for Newcastle Red Bulls forward Max Hicks ahead of the Nations Championship.
The 26-year-old, who previously represented the Māori All Blacks, has emerged as a potential option for England after impressing in the Gallagher PREM.
According to The Times, Hicks is attracting interest from the England coaching staff as Borthwick weighs up his options for the autumn internationals.
The versatile forward can operate at lock or blindside flanker, giving England another option in an increasingly competitive position.
Former All Blacks star could switch to England
Hicks previously played Super Rugby for the Highlanders before making the move to Newcastle Red Bulls.
He also represented the Māori All Blacks, although those appearances do not prevent him from playing for England.
The forward has an English family connection and has not been capped by New Zealand's senior international side.
That leaves the door open for a potentially surprising international switch, subject to eligibility confirmation.
Hicks has impressed with his physicality and versatility since arriving in English rugby, qualities that could appeal to Borthwick.
England already have considerable depth in the back five of the scrum, with Maro Itoje, Ollie Chessum and George Martin among their established options.
However, injuries and the demands of the Gallagher PREM and Nations Championship could create opportunities for new faces.
RUCK previously reported that three Newcastle players with New Zealand rugby connections could emerge as surprise England options, including Hicks.
England squad announcement approaching
Borthwick is preparing to name his squad for the upcoming Nations Championship fixtures, with several selection decisions still to be made.
Courtney Lawes, Joe Marchant and Will Joseph have also been linked with potential returns to the England setup.
For Hicks, an international call-up would represent a remarkable rise after leaving New Zealand rugby for Newcastle.
However, no selection has been confirmed, and the forward must wait to discover whether Borthwick will hand him an opportunity.
Pick your England XV for the Nations Championship! 🏉
Steve Borthwick has some huge selection calls to make. Here's my starting side.
