The futures of several players remain unresolved.
Get your tickets to the next England match at viagogo, the world’s leading ticket marketplace. Find out how by clicking here.
At least three players set to be named in England’s 2023 Rugby World Cup training squad will arrive with their club futures up in the air.
#1. Lukę Cowan-Dickie
Currently clubless, the England hooker has reportedly decided to turn down an enticing opportunity to play in France and instead join one of Exeter Chiefs’ direct rivals in the Premiership.
Contrary to previous reports in The Rugby Paper linking the hooker with a move to Stade Francais, the Mail Online reveals that he will be joining Sale Sharks.
The addition of another British and Irish Lion to Sale Sharks’ pack would be a significant boost for the team, especially after their loss in the Premiership finals, where a malfunctioning lineout played a part in their defeat against Saracens.
If the deal comes to fruition, it would also be a welcome development for national coach Steve Borthwick, as Cowan-Dickie’s eligibility for Test selection after this year’s World Cup would be secured.
According to the latest report, Cowan-Dickie is currently experiencing a slow and frustrating recovery from neck surgery.
Nonetheless, he has already completed one medical examination at Sale Sharks, and if he successfully completes a second one, he will join Jonny Hill and Tom O’Flaherty in making the move from Exeter to the Sharks.