Tom Willis will leave Saracens this summer to rejoin his former club Union Bordeaux-Bègles in France, a major career decision that will also make him ineligible for England selection ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
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As a player holding an RFU Elite Player Squad contract, Willis had been a key part of Steve Borthwick’s plans for England, and his departure represents a significant setback for both the national side and Saracens.
Willis previously spent the 2022/23 season with Bordeaux, making 17 appearances, including 13 starts, and scoring two tries as the club reached the Top 14 play-off semi-finals before losing to La Rochelle.
He also featured twice in the European Champions Cup, registering one start and one try.
However, Planet Rugby has revealed that one factor behind his decision to leave, alongside the financial and lifestyle advantages of living and playing in the south of France, was Saracens’ artificial pitch at StoneX Stadium.
According to Planet Rugby, the information comes from a source close to the player. While the artificial surface was not the primary reason for his move, it was still a contributing factor.
The detail is particularly notable given the history of artificial pitches and the Willis family.
Eight years after Jack Willis suffered one of the most high-profile knee injuries on an artificial surface during the 2018 Premiership semi-final at Allianz Park, his younger brother is now leaving Saracens partly because of concerns surrounding the same type of playing surface.
Artificial pitches remain a divisive issue in PREM Rugby. Saracens are one of three clubs currently using them, alongside Newcastle Red Bulls and Gloucester.
Supporters of artificial surfaces point to their practicality and financial benefits.
They can be used throughout the year for community events, training sessions and concerts, generating valuable revenue without suffering the same wear and tear as natural grass. They are also generally less affected by adverse weather conditions.
This is particularly relevant in Newcastle, where the wet winters of north-east England can make maintaining a natural grass pitch at Kingston Park especially challenging.
Nevertheless, many players have voiced concerns about artificial surfaces. Former England prop Joe Marler publicly called for a ban on 4G pitches in September 2021, posting “Ban 4G pitches” on social media.
He received support from England centre Henry Slade and former Saracens lock Jim Hamilton, both of whom backed his stance.
Quiz: Name these 10 retro rugby players
From jaw-dropping tries to unforgettable moments (and yes, some questionable haircuts), these players defined a golden era of the game. If their names don’t instantly come to mind, we suggest a quick trip to YouTube to jog your memory. Trust us, it’s worth it.
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