#2. Ethan Roots
A talented mixed martial artist, Auckland-born Roots gave up a promising career in Brazilian jiu-jitsu to pursue his rugby dream.
His playing career began at North Harbour, before signing with the Crusaders in 2020. A move to Europe in 2021 saw him play for Ospreys, before joining Exeter Chiefs ahead of the 2023-24 season. Eligible through his English father, Roots’ impressive performances in the Gallagher Premiership for the Chiefs earned him a place in Steve Borthwick’s England squad for the Guinness Men’s Six Nations 2024.
Greenwood wrote: “An old-school six, bit of a throwback if you want an enforcer. Dave Ewers will be thinking: “Finally, someone recognises the importance of smashing things.”
“He has a bit of edge with Kiwi written all over him. Within minutes of watching him, you appreciate why the All Blacks have been so good for so long. He’s a clever ball-player as well as an abrasive operator.”
