3. Billy Vunipola
A consistent name on the team sheet throughout Eddie Jones’ time in charge of England, Vunipola misses out on Borthwick’s first squad selection.
Due to the untimely injury of Tom Curry, it was expected that the Saracen may populate a back-row slot in the squad, but Borthwick looked to Tom’s brother Ben Curry for the 2023 Six Nations.
Borthwick has overlooked Billy Vunipola so far during his time in charge, and instead opted for Harlequins’ heavy hitter Alex Dombrandt at number eight. Exeter Chiefs back-rower Sam Simmonds has also been around the squad ahead of Vunipola, as has The 2022 Premiership Player of the Year Ben Earl, who was criminally overlooked for England throughout the Eddie Jones era.
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Billy Vunipola has made 68 caps for England, and was a prominent feature at number eight since 2013. A famed ball carrier, capable of bull-dozing over defenders, Vunipola was a fan favourite at his England peak, scoring eight tries. However with so many talented back-rowers competing for places, it is speculated by many that Billy has played his last game for England. A late call up due to an injury could well lead to a Vunipola return, and squad rotation will be key during the run up to the competition.
Vunipola’s future at Saracens remains unclear, with the 30-year-old alluding to a move to Australia or Japan on Jim Hamilton’s ‘Big Jim Show’ podcast. Also, With Tom Willis arriving at the Stone X Stadium ahead of next season, Vunipola may be set to depart to overseas opportunities, which could well halt his chances of further England selections.