"Recall Mercer" - The players who SHOULD be in England's World Cup squad - Ruck

“Recall Mercer” – The players who SHOULD be in England’s World Cup squad

It is with great disbelief that we observe the selection choices made by England boss Steve Borthwick for the upcoming Rugby World Cup training squad.

It appears that a series of egregious mistakes have been made, resulting in the exclusion of several key players who should undoubtedly be part of the team.

The time for corrective action is now, and the hopes of a nation hang in the balance.

Alex Mitchell for Ben Youngs

I understand the importance of experience, but sometimes you have to take risks, embrace the future, and give the young blood a chance to prove themselves.

After impressing during the 2023 Six Nations in patches, Mitchell deserved that chance, and Borthwick’s conservative choice has denied him the opportunity to shine. It’s a decision that reeks of missed potential and will undoubtedly leave Mitchell feeling undervalued and neglected.

This should have been a no-brainer, a slam dunk for Mitchell. Yet, Borthwick has once again taken the safe route, opting for the worn-out experience of Ben Youngs instead of giving the young gun a fair chance to shine.

Bristol Bears playmaker Harry Randall, who has also impressed this season, should also feel hard done by if we’re being honest.

Alex Mitchell of Northampton Saints during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby Match between Harlequins and Northampton Saints at Twickenham Stadium on 27 December 2021. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK

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