Steve Borthwick may still be shaping his England side, but the national coach could soon have several reinforcements at his disposal as the team builds towards the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
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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.
Hoskins Sotutu
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 Red Bulls 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.
