In Monday’s announcement of the England squad of 33 players for the upcoming Rugby World Cup in France, one notable omission that grabbed the headlines was Henry Slade.
Shortly after the squad was named, Steve Borthwick was requested to provide an explanation for his selection choices.
“There were a number of difficult decisions as you have to take the squad down to 33 players and we have a lot of talented players in the squad,” he began. “So by that nature, quality players miss out on the 33.
“Henry has been excellent throughout the training camp. He is clearly disappointed. The message to the players that have not been selected is to be ready to come into the squad. We know that there will be changes.
“The last World Cup shows that with bumps and bruises, the average is nearly two players a squad in the last number of tournaments (are changed), so what I have asked every player who hasn’t been selected is to be ready to go.
On axing Slade he confirmed the reports yesterday that Joe Marchant made the squad ahead of Slade based on his versatility: “Now there are good players competing for each of these decisions and I have said this many times, I decided you will have three players in the key positions, across front row, scrum-half, fly-half for the obvious reasons.
“What that means is that in other areas of the team, you need to have positional flexibility, you need to make some compromise. That is always in the balance in the select
HENRY SLADE STATEMENT:
He wrote on Instagram: “Time with family will always bring a smile to my face ❤️
“Gutted to be left out of the world cup squad. Will keep working hard. Thank you for all of the kind messages over the last few days x”
SOCIAL REACTION:
One fan wrote: “Can’t believe they didn’t pick you?Crazy decision but enjoy the family time.”
A second commented: “Lost for words on the decision but England’s loss is yours and your families gain!”
Another said: “Gutted & very surprised….you where in my top 5 players to be first on the team sheet 🤷🏻♂️……Englands loss, Chiefs gain! Enjoy your family time.”
“Shocking you were not selected! A big mistake, however, who knows what will hapoen between now and WC?!?! Enjoy the time with your family x” wrote a fourth.
A fifth added: “Ridiculous decision that I’m sure Borthwick will very soon realise and regret. Have a great season with Chiefs and the new squad.”
World Cup Quiz:
30 Best rugby players (professional era)
30 Jason Robinson (England)
Known as Billy Whizz, this former rugby league star proved a hugely successful convert to Union. A lethal runner from full-back or wing, he was a nightmare to mark in one-on-one situations.
They said: “Known as Billy Whizz, this former rugby league star proved a hugely successful convert to Union. A lethal runner from full-back or wing, he was a nightmare to mark in one-on-one situations.”
29 George Smith (Australia)
Renowned for his skills at the breakdown, George Smith was a master of turnovers and a tireless worker on the field. His tenacity and rugby intelligence made him a valuable asset for Australia.
28 Alun Wyn Jones (Wales)
A true leader and embodiment of Welsh rugby, Alun Wyn Jones has been a towering presence in the second row. With his physicality, work rate, and immense passion, he has achieved numerous accolades.”
27 Sam Warburton (Wales)
Sam Warburton captained Wales and the British and Irish Lions with distinction. His athleticism, poise, and ability to win turnovers made him one of the finest openside flankers of his generation.
26 Doug Howlett (New Zealand)
As a former New Zealand rugby star, Doug Howlett was a prolific try-scorer. His speed, agility, and finishing ability made him a constant threat on the wing for both club and country.
25 Stephen Larkham (Australia)
Stephen Larkham was a gifted playmaker who orchestrated attacks with his vision and passing skills. His ability to read the game and create opportunities set him apart as a top-class fly-half.
24 Gethin Jenkins (Wales)
Gethin Jenkins was a formidable prop known for his scrummaging prowess and work rate around the field. His durability and consistency made him a vital asset to the Welsh and British Lions.
23 Richard Hill (England)
Richard Hill was a versatile back-row forward who excelled in both defense and attack. His commitment, reliability, and selflessness earned him plaudits as a vital contributor to England’s success.
They said: “Did all the unseen, grafting work and just got on with his job in unassuming fashion, putting his body on the line. Able to excel right across the back row, he was a pivotal figure on two Lions trips and an England World Cup winner.”
22 Schalk Burger (South Africa)
Schalk Burger was a dynamic and physical flanker, always putting his body on the line. His ferocious tackling and ability to turn over ball made him a feared competitor in the back row.
21 Lawrence Dallaglio (England)
Lawrence Dallaglio was a powerful number eight who led by example. His leadership qualities, ball-carrying ability, and never-say-die attitude made him an integral part of successful teams.
They said: “Had it all in his prime – pace, power, aggression, pride and a steely mind-set. A Lions series winner, a World Cup winner and a trophy magnet with Wasps.”