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Tom Willis' England career over for now as Saracens confirm shock exit
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Saracens have announced that England No.8 Tom Willis will leave the club at the end of the season – as originally flagged by RugbyPass.
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The club made the announcement just minutes after the 26-year-old starred in their 65-14 demolition of Sale Sharks in the Gallagher PREM.
The Telegraph are reporting that the eight-cap England international will rejoin Bordeaux-Begles in the Top 14, whom he represented before moving to London.
This is a hammerblow to England head coach Steve Borthwick. Following a standout summer against Argentina, Willis was widely expected to hold the white No.8 jersey this November.
This move will instead end his England career temporarily, as he joins his brother, Jack, in exile.
Willis’ contract was due to expire at the end of the season, and he was believed to have many suitors both in England and abroad. But given his form in 2025, this decision to suspend his international career and forgo a chance to play at the 2027 World Cup will surprise many.
While he will remain eligible for England selection for the rest of the season, Borthwick will surely now look to the future with his preliminary squad named on Sunday.
A statement reads: “Saracens can today confirm that Tom Willis will leave the club at the end of the season to pursue an opportunity in France.
“The number eight has taken the Gallagher PREM by storm since moving to the Original Club of North London in 2023.
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“His relentless and energetic performances have seen him wear the Black and Red shirt on 43 occasions, and his form last year saw him named in the PREM Dream Team.
“The 26-year-old has also become an England regular during his time at Saracens, with eight caps to his name.”
Director of rugby Mark McCall said: “Whilst we are disappointed that Tom will not be extending his time at the club, we fully respect his decision to pursue a new challenge in France.
“He has made a great impact on the field and been a popular team-mate off it.
“I know he is determined to give everything to the group over the coming months. Everyone at Saracens thank Tom for all his efforts in a Saracens jersey.”
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Willis added: “I’ve absolutely loved my time at Saracens and have made some friends for life.
“This was one of the hardest decisions of my life but it’s one that feels right for me.
“I will continue to give everything for this club for the remainder of the season and I’m very excited about what this squad can achieve.”
