As head coach Steve Borthwick gears up to unveil his initial England squad for 2024, he grapples with the challenge of navigating four pivotal selection choices.
The aftermath of the 2023 Rugby World Cup last Autumn has left a void, with a number of key players absent from consideration.
The highly-anticipated Guinness Six Nations, a fixture cherished by fans annually, is looming. However, the team faces limitations in its selection pool due to the retirements of several influential players, the temporary absence of figures like Owen Farrell, and the season-long sidelining of Tom Curry due to a hip injury.
Adding to the uncertainties, Ellis Genge, a key player, is a significant doubt for the opening match following a hamstring injury. Borthwick provided an update, stating, “Ellis is recovering from a hamstring injury. We expect more information in about a week, and with any luck, he’ll be back early in the Six Nations – fingers crossed.”
Complicating matters, a notable portion of the squad is currently committed to playing opportunities in the Top 14.
Amidst these challenges, reports suggest that Borthwick has made four crucial call-ups in preparation for the upcoming game at Twickenham.
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#1. Immanuel Feyi-Waboso (Exeter Chiefs)
Borthwick has admitted he has made contact with Exeter’s star wing Feyi-Waboso ahead of the 2024 Six Nations.
Despite being born in Wales, possessing a strong Welsh accent, and emerging from Cardiff’s academy, the 21-year-old made a move to the Premiership in 2022 by joining Wasps.
Following the challenges faced by the Midlanders, Exeter promptly secured the talented player, and his impressive displays this season have propelled him into consideration for a spot in the Test squad.
Born to Nigerian parents, Feyi-Waboso grew up as one of six siblings in Llandaff, and kicked off his club rugby journey with Rumney RFC, while also being heavily involved in athletics specialising in hurdles and high jump.
He also represented Cardiff Schools at Under 11s and Under 15s level before progressing further in the Cardiff Rugby pathway with the age grade sides and academy.