England's rugby team faces a daunting challenge as they gear up for the Six Nations tournament, and it's a situation that has fans and critics alike holding their breath. Head coach Steve Borthwick didn’t mince words when he described the current prop injury crisis as 'unfortunate and disruptive,' but he’s quick to add that his team is ready to 'attack the tournament' with everything they’ve got. But here's where it gets controversial—can a team with such significant setbacks in the front row really contend for the title they last won in 2020? Let’s dive in.
The injury list reads like a who’s who of England’s prop talent. Long-time tighthead Dan Cole retired at the end of last season, and now Will Stuart (Achilles) and Asher Opoku-Fordjour (shoulder) are sidelined for the entire tournament. And this is the part most people miss—even the loosehead side isn’t spared, with Harlequins’ Fin Baxter out with a calf injury. The result? Borthwick has been forced to name two uncapped props in his squad: 20-year-old Vilikesa Sela and 25-year-old Emmanuel Iyogun. Is this a risky gamble or a bold statement of faith in young talent?
Adding to the intrigue, 33-year-old Trevor Davison, with just three caps to his name, has also made the cut. With the scrum now more critical than ever due to law changes encouraging kick-to-compete tactics, Borthwick acknowledges the situation is far from ideal. Yet, he remains optimistic, pointing out that challenges like these create opportunities for others. 'We’ve had the depth charts planned,' he assures, crediting scrum coach Tom Harrison for his clear vision on player progression.
But let’s pause for a moment—is relying on untested players in such a crucial area of the game a recipe for disaster, or could this be the making of England’s next rugby heroes? Borthwick seems to think the latter, highlighting the squad’s blend of experienced internationals and ambitious young talent. Since their defeat to Ireland in Dublin at the start of the 2025 Six Nations, England has strung together 11 consecutive wins, including victories over France, New Zealand, and Australia at Twickenham. That’s no small feat.
Borthwick’s confidence is palpable as he discusses the team’s evolution. From the World Cup-focused squad of his early tenure to the current group, he sees a team that’s not just developing but thriving. 'I think everybody can see it,' he says. And the buzz around the team is undeniable. Fans feel connected, players are hungry, and the atmosphere is electric. But will this positivity translate into tournament success, or is it all just hype?
One player generating excitement is Exeter Chiefs’ No. 8 Greg Fisilau, another uncapped addition to the squad. Borthwick doesn’t hold back in his praise, calling Fisilau’s work rate 'phenomenal.' His ability to carry in traffic, wide spaces, and post-contact makes him a standout talent. Could Fisilau be the wildcard England needs to dominate the tournament?
As England prepares to kick off against Wales on February 7 at Twickenham, the question remains: Can they turn adversity into triumph? Borthwick’s squad is determined, ambitious, and ready to play 'brave, big, and fast.' But in a tournament as fierce as the Six Nations, will that be enough?
What do you think? Is England’s reliance on young, untested players a bold move or a risky gamble? Will they lift the trophy, or will their injury crisis prove too much to overcome? Let us know in the comments—we want to hear your take!
