Ten Rising Stars Eager to Reshape England's Rugby Squad This Autumn

As England gears up for the November Nations Championship, where they’ll take on Australia, Japan, and New Zealand, Coach Steve Borthwick is eyeing a fresh approach to his squad. Following a dismal Six Nations campaign and a historic loss to Italy in 2026, the need for new talent is pressing. Borthwick is set to announce his autumn training squad soon, and here’s a look at ten uncapped players who could inject some much-needed dynamism into the team.

George Hendy: The Northampton Dynamo

Age: 23
Position: Wing/full-back
Club: Northampton Saints

George Hendy has shown his scoring prowess with Northampton, notching two tries in last season's final and adding three more in the current campaign. His exhilarating speed and agility make him a consistent threat, and with previous selections for England A under his belt, he appears poised to make the leap to the senior side. Given England's recent struggles at full-back, Hendy could provide the stability Borthwick is looking for, especially with fellow Saints players in the mix like Fin Smith and Tommy Freeman. Although he missed a recent match due to a minor hip injury, he’s expected to return soon.

Nathan Jibulu: The Hooker Built Like Cement

Age: 30
Position: Hooker
Club: Sale Sharks

The hooker position has become a potential hotspot for upheaval, as Jamie George and Luke Cowan-Dickie enter the latter stages of their careers. Nathan Jibulu, known for his physicality and hard-nosed play, is making waves at Sale with his impressive performances against top teams. His improved set-piece throwing, coupled with his tenacity on the field, makes him an attractive option for Borthwick as he re-evaluates England's front-line options.

Jack Bracken: A Scrum-Half with Lineage

Age: 21
Position: Scrum-half
Club: Saracens

As the son of World Cup-winning scrum-half Kyran Bracken, expectations are high for Jack. Bracken has displayed his skills in the Saracens setup, showcasing a dynamic running ability and a keen sense for creating play. After scoring his first Premiership try in a convincing victory over Bristol, he’s positioned himself well for national consideration, especially as competition heats up for the scrum-half position.

Max Hicks: The Late Bloomer

Age: 27
Position: Flanker
Club: Newcastle Red Bulls

New Zealand-born Max Hicks brings international eligibility through his Cornish mother. His signing with Newcastle has reignited his career, and he impressed with a try during a tough match against Exeter. Hicks’ tall and athletic frame allows him to excel as a link player and may give him the edge as England solidifies its back-row options.

Pater: The Young Gun on the Rise

Age: 19
Position: Full-back
Club: Northampton Saints

Pater has been earmarked as a standout talent from the start of the season and quickly paid off that faith with a hat-trick in his opening match. As he continues to mature with the Saints, his ball skills and growing physicality make him another exciting option for Borthwick’s squad, particularly given England's historic depth at full-back.

Sione Va’enuku: The Wildcard Center

Age: 24
Position: Centre
Club: Saracens

Having transitioned from NRL to rugby union, Sione Va’enuku is a versatile and powerful playing option in the centres. Despite limited game time in the Premiership, his explosive nature and rugby intellect could make him a strategic asset for England, especially given his dual eligibility and experience against high-caliber teams.

Archie McParland: The Emerging Scrum-Half

Age: 21
Position: Scrum-half
Club: Northampton Saints

With fast distribution and an eye for gaps, Archie McParland is giving Alex Mitchell a run for his money at Northampton. His club performances could soon translate onto the international stage, and fans may see him in an England kit if he continues on this trajectory following a strong start this season.

Fitz Harding: The Proven Leader

Age: 25
Position: Flanker
Club: Bristol Bears

Leading Bristol with consistent performances, Fitz Harding has showcased his leadership capabilities and tangible skills on the field. If form continues to drive selection criteria, Harding's ability to disrupt play and orchestrate defense could earn him a call-up, especially as competition for back-row positions continues to intensify.

Ethan Burger: The Powerhouse

Age: 22
Position: Prop
Club: Exeter Chiefs

Ethan Burger has emerged as a formidable presence in the scrum since joining Exeter following his university career in South Africa. His strong scrummaging and agility are traits that would fit well into the English front row, and his rise could be a direct response to the current physical demands of top-flight rugby.

Orlando Bailey: The Versatile Backline Threat

Age: 25
Position: Fly-half/Centre
Club: Leicester Tigers

The adaptable Orlando Bailey has proven himself as a key figure for Leicester following his transfer from Bath. Having already earned a cap with England A, his recent form and ability to play across the backline strengthen his case for national selection as Borthwick looks for depth in the back positions.

As the autumn matches approach, the inclusion of these ten players could reshape England’s fortunes. Each brings unique skills and backgrounds that can enhance the squad's dynamics and help the team bounce back from recent setbacks.