Followers of Rugby Inside Line on X have put forward their ideal England XV for the much-anticipated 2024 Six Nations, envisioning the lineup they believe coach Steve Borthwick should go for.
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Harlequins standout Marcus Smith has been chosen over George Ford to step into the shoes of former captain Owen Farrell, who has stepped away from international rugby post the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
The XV includes the only uncapped player, Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, positioned on the wing. The speedster, eligible for both England and Wales, has stirred significant speculation. Although born in Cardiff and having previous ties with Cardiff Rugby, recent reports suggest he’s set to join the England squad, as revealed in Wednesday’s upcoming announcement.
Exeter Chiefs make a noteworthy contribution to the squad with the inclusion of Henry Slade, rewarding him with a recall after being overlooked for the World Cup due to his impressive performances.
Also returning to the team are Northampton stars Tom Pearson and Tommy Freeman, who missed out on the World Cup squad but find themselves back in contention.
England Six Nations XV:
- 15 FREDDIE STEWARD
- 14 TOMMY FREEMAN
- 13 HENRY SLADE
- 12 OLLIE LAWRENCE
- 11 IMMANUEL FEYI-WABOSO
- 10 MARCUS SMITH
- 09 ALEX MITCHELL
- 01 ELLIS GENGE
- 02 JAMIE GEORGE
- 03 KYLE SINCKLER
- 04 MARO ITOJE
- 05 OLLIE CHESSUM
- 06 SAM UNDERHILL
- 07 TOM PEARSON
- 08 BEN EARL
Rugby transfer round-up: Owen Farrell replaced, Sinckler and Tuilagi depart
RUCK RUGBY takes a look at all the latest transfer stories with their rugby Transfer Round-Up.
Ma’a Nonu re-signs with San Diego Legion
In a sensational move, two-time Rugby World Cup champion Nonu has inked a new contract with San Diego Legion that paves the way for his illustrious career to stride into 2024.
Although it’s been since 2015 that Nonu showcased his skills in the iconic black jersey, the 41-year-old maestro remains resolute in prolonging his playing journey, proving age is just a number for this All Blacks legend.
“The Legend is back for another year,” head coach and director of rugby Danny Lee said in a statement confirming Nonu’s signing.
“We are thrilled to have Ma’a back for the 2024 MLR season after an outstanding 2023. Ma’a had a major influence on our team last season on and off the field and was a major factor in us having a very successful season, playing in the MLR final and us breaking Club and League records along the way. We go again.”
Manu Tuilagi set to leave Sale Sharks, four clubs in the race to sign centre
This week, Midi Olympique reported a surge of interest from several French clubs keen to secure the services of the 112kg powerhouse. Bayonne and Montpellier from the Top 14 have reportedly taken the initiative by reaching out to Tuilagi’s management team.
Meanwhile, Toulon is actively seeking a marquee signing. However, Perpignan, with its deep-rooted connection to the Tuilagi family, is reported to be the leading contender for the signature of the 2013 British & Irish Lion.
Mason Grady linked with Wales exit
Wales could be set to lose a promising young wing, following recent reports regarding the future of Mason Grady. The Cardiff flyer has been linked with four Premiership clubs, and could be on his way out of Wales when his contract expires this Summer.
The front-runner for Grady’s signature is rumoured to be Bath, however the likes of Saracens, Sale Sharks and Exeter Chiefs are also amongst the conversation. Should Grady leave Cardiff in favour of a move to England, he will rule himself out of future Wales test matches, due to the contractural agreements in place with the WRU.
Bordeaux deal for van Rensburg
Former Sale and London Irish star Rohan Janse van Rensburg has secured a move to Bordeaux for the upcoming three seasons, signalling his departure from Bristol Bears at the end of the current season.
The 29-year-old, with one Springbok cap to his name, is currently in his second season with the Sharks in South Africa. Having been a crucial part of Sale’s Premiership Cup-winning team against Quins in 2020, he boasts an impressive record of 74 appearances and 23 tries.
Van Rensburg initially kickstarted his career in South Africa with the Lions before making his mark at Sale.