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Exit of 4 current England rugby players rumoured in French media
By Ian Cameron
A recent report by Midi Olympique suggests that as many as four current England rugby players are could be embarking on a return journey to France after the Rugby World Cup.
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While England are two from two at the World Cup thanks to wins over Argentina and Japan in Pool D, the thoughts of at least some of their number may be on the prospect of continuing their careers in France.
The quartet—comprising Kyle Sinckler, Elliot Daly, Will Stuart, and Lewis Ludlam—have apparently captured the attention of several Top 14 sides according to reports this week.
At 30 years of age, Sinckler finds himself at a pivotal point in his career and is understood to be nearing the end of his contract with Pat Lam’s Bristol. The former Harlequins stalwart and British & Irish Lions tourist is entering his prime as a prop is apparently part of the conversation.
Tighthead Will Stuart, the rising star of English rugby’s front row, is in a similar contractual position, approaching the end of his tenure with Bath.
Toulon, who had previously set their sights on Demba Bamba, are reported to be considering Will Stuart as an alternative.
Meanwhile, ASM Clermont, facing the potential departure of Rabah Slimani, and Union Bordeaux-Begles and Castres Olympique, are also in the hunt to secure a tighthead, with both Stuart and Sinckler high on the shopping list.
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Saracens’ utility back Elliot Daly is yet another player in the spotlight among French recruiters. The former British & Irish Lions veteran’s versatility and wealth of experience have made him a valuable asset for England under Steve Borthwick, and a number of French clubs are said to be eager to harness his talents.
Lewis Ludlam, himself a versatile back-row forward celebrated for his physicality and work rate, has also piqued the interest of Top 14 teams, a move which would see him cut short his burgeoning England career, for the time being at least.
The Northampton Saints back row has impressed so far for England so far in France.
England flyer Henry Arundell has already signed for Racing 92, while former England players Sam Simmonds, Jack Nowell and Harry Williams are among a number of Gallagher Premiership players who are already enjoying a new career on French soil with their respective clubs.
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Second row David Ribbans has also already thrown in his lot with Toulon.
England and Sale Sharks’ flyhalf George Ford has also repeatedly been linked with a move to Racing 92.
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Richie McCaw as AB captain instilled a mental edge that has been notably lacking since he retired. I would love to see him back involved with the team again.
Go to commentsNot always the best idea to make your best player captain. Ardie was all over the pitch in the final, making a difference. Being captain doesn’t make him hungrier, it just gives him more to do. From a distance, the ABs were like the Borg, relentless / faceless just a bunch of bodies in black who were all good / great in their positions. The ABs looked vulnerable this yr. The team needs more structure, more depth, and less star player BS. Telea missing the semi b/c the f’wit couldn’t understand ‘curfew’ is completely unacceptable for a top-side. I think the new AB capo needs to be a major hard-ass b/c the ABs lack discipline (something I don’t see very often). If the squad were self-discipline like the 2015 crew, you could have a creative capo like Ardie.
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