Gloucester dynamo Zach Mercer is a glaring omission from the England squad, according to rugby pundit Lawrence Dallaglio, who is baffled by Steve Borthwick’s decision to overlook the talented 26-year-old.
Dallaglio, a World Cup victor in 2003, expressed his bewilderment during commentary over the weekend, declaring, “Being the standout player in France should guarantee a spot in the England setup.”
Echoing Mercer’s own sentiments, Dallaglio, renowned for his prowess as a ball-playing No.8, voiced the frustration shared by many regarding the exclusion of the Gloucester powerhouse by England’s head coach.
Despite Mercer’s accolades, including being named Player of the Year in France in 2022, he was notably absent from the England A team last month, further perplexing observers.
There’s a growing belief among rugby fans that Mercer’s dynamic style clashes with Borthwick’s preferences, with the coach seemingly unimpressed by Mercer’s multifaceted skill set, which encompasses running, passing, kicking, and exceptional handling abilities.
Referee is rugby union’s richest man with an incredible net worth of £39.3m
The rugby world isn’t just about breathtaking tries and fierce tackles; it’s also a realm where fortunes are made. Here’s the lowdown on the top 10 wealthiest rugby players right now:
Credit: The South African for the original data
10. Owen Farrell – £1.46 million ($2 million)
Saracens are making waves in the Premiership, and Owen Farrell, their skipper, is reaping the rewards. The bulk of his net worth, a cool £1.46 million, flows directly from his dedication to Saracens.
9. Maro Itoje – £1.46 million ($2 million)
Teammate to Farrell both at England and Saracens, Maro Itoje is on a trajectory to become one of rugby’s highest earners. His salary, comparable to the national skipper’s, showcases his potential.
8. Charles Piutau – £1.85 million ($2.5 million)
Former All Blacks player Charles Piutau’s move to Bristol Bears came with an eyewatering salary. The club’s investment in him during his five seasons speaks volumes about his impact.