Sir Clive Woodward has declared that ‘not one’ England player would get into the Ireland team right now.
The Irish, who look destined to capture their fourth Gran Slam against England in Dublin later today, have been in fine form during the 2023 Six Nations.
“We have seen him score wonder tries for London Irish and England already so we know he is good going forward. Against Ireland, we will find out if Arundell can defend.”
Woodward wrote: “When I look at Ireland, I see a formidable squad. Not one English player gets in their side right now. Again, that’s a reflection of how far England are behind
“Ireland are a seriously impressive unit from one to 23 but it is in their forwards where they have a particular strength and that spells real trouble for England.
“As I wrote earlier in the tournament, the No 10 debate has been a big distraction for England. The discussion over who should be at fly-half between Owen Farrell, Marcus Smith and George Ford has masked other problems — most significantly in the pack.”
He went onto add: “Against France, England’s forwards were obliterated. I’m surprised there has only been one change to the pack for Ireland and even that has been injury enforced with lock Ollie Chessum out after a serious ankle problem.
“England’s forwards must respond in Dublin and I fully expect them to after the hammering they’ve received from all quarters since last week’s demolition.
“They were humiliated by France, blown away at the contact area and smashed to bits physically. Things won’t get any easier in Dublin because I think the Irsh pack is the best in the world. I could discuss each player in detail but they are all world class!:
The World Cup winning boss, however, is excited by England’s backline selection.
Woodward added: “I actually like the look of the England back-line. I’m pleased to see Henry Arundell start. He will be a fantastic player for England and is a phenomenal talent. But make no mistake, Ireland will look to target him and he will be in for a tough game. We have all seen the wonderful attacking ability Arundell has. There is no doubt he is of Test class.
“We have seen him score wonder tries for London Irish and England already so we know he is good going forward. Against Ireland, we will find out if Arundell can defend.”
Combined England/Ireland XV: 15. Hugo Keenan, 14. Mack Hansen, 13. Robbie Henshaw, 12. Bundee Aki, 11. James Lowe, 10. Johnny Sexton (c), 9. Jamison Gibson-Park; 1. Andrew Porter, 2. Dan Sheehan, 3. Tadhg Furlong, 4. Ryan Baird, 5. James Ryan, 6. Peter O’Mahony, 7. Josh van der Flier, 8. Caelan Doris
“B****ocks” – The five England players whose Six Nations careers could be over in 24 hours
Is it the last Six Nations dance for some England players? A number of stars will likely be unavailable in 12 months time.
#1. Jack Willis (current age 26)
Willis has reportedly agreed to stay with the French club, and has put pen to paper for an additional year with Toulouse. That means he will be, under current rules, not be available for the 2024 Six Nations.
According to reports from French rugby outlet Midi Olympique, Willis also has the clause in his contract to add an extra year on top of the agreed one season, later in the future. Willis moved to the South of France in November of last year, following the financial collapse of Wasps in the Gallagher Premiership.
The 26-year-old has been so far impressing in his home, and has nestled his way into the starting back row. After almost two years side-lined from the international scene with a serious re-occurring knee injury, Willis has made his comeback to the England squad, with Steve Borthwick also favouring Willis in the back row.
Marking his return with a Six Nations try against Italy, two years after he suffered the horrific injury in the very same fixture, Willis is back and better than ever. However, England are in the midst of re-affirming their eligibility laws, with Willis’ England future up for debate.
Many of England’s fringe players are opting to move to France, with the mass exodus at Exeter Chiefs seeing numerous stars depart due to salary cap restrictions. Sam Simmonds, Luke Cowan-Dickie and Harry Williams are all preparing for a summer move to Montpellier, and flying winger Jack Nowell was yesterday confirmed for a transfer to La Rochelle.
Possible replacement: Ted Hill
