Toulon has initiated a bold double move on Steve Borthwick’s World Cup roster in an attempt to entice Kyle Sinckler and Lewis Ludlam to the sunny shores of the Cote d’Azur when their contracts expire next summer.
The Rugby Paper had previously indicated Toulon’s interest in Ludlam after his stellar performances in the early stages of the World Cup, and they have since extended a tempting offer to him.
As for Sinckler, he appears to be the next high-priority target, especially amid reports suggesting that he is unlikely to renew his contract with Bristol Bears. If he does move to Toulon, that would be the end of his international career.
Sinckler’s journey to international recognition can be traced back to his early days, where he drew inspiration from the renowned New Zealand prop, Carl Hayman.
This inspiration propelled him through the ranks, earning him a spot in the England squad for the tour of Australia in June 2016, after previously representing England XV against the Barbarians and facing the Crusaders during a senior tour of New Zealand. Sinckler’s development led him through the Harlequins Academy, following a decade with Battersea Ironsides.
His first England cap came as a replacement against South Africa in November 2016. His consistent form earned him a place as one of four England props in the British & Irish Lions squad for New Zealand, where he was named on the bench for all three Tests.
Sinckler’s maiden start for England occurred against Ireland in the 2018 Six Nations. Notably, during the 2019 Rugby World Cup, Sinckler was a key figure, featuring in every match as England advanced to the final, and he scored a memorable try against Australia in the quarter-finals.
Sinckler’s Lions journey continued in 2021, as he contributed from the bench in every Test. He then played a key role for Borthwick during the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France.
Six England players will retire after Argentina game this weekend
Here, RUCK provides a closer look at the cohort in question…
Courtney Lawes
Lawes has been a stalwart in the England team, amassing over 100 appearances and representing his country in four World Cups.
His outstanding performances for both club and country also earned him the privilege of participating in two British & Irish Lions tours during his Test career.
Lawes said: “I haven’t told Steve yet! But I will let him know.
“I’ve said to the boys, anyone that’s asked. I think it’s time. I’ve done four World Cups, so I’m pretty happy with that.
“It’s a bit of an end of an era, but it’s been a real honour for me to represent England for so long. It flies by.
“I’m proud of the journey I’ve been on. It’s not always been the ups. Plenty of downs in there, but I’ve pushed through.
“I’m not an emotional person really, but it’s just been a huge honour for me.
Joe Marler
Marler is set to bid farewell to England duty once again, a decision he previously made back in 2018. He confessed that a meeting with Borthwick played a crucial role in persuading him to strive for a spot in the squad.
Reflecting on this, the Harlequins player shared, “It might have been two years ago when I was thinking: ‘Not a chance do I want to go to another World Cup,’ earlier this summer. “But as it’s got a bit closer, I’ve been thinking: ‘Let’s give it a go.’”
