As the international window rolls around once again we are to be treated to a smorgasbord of rugby. Alongside the England Men’s Six Nations we also have the Women’s and the U20s taking place.
To shine a light on some of the lesser-known players in these competitions David Challis has taken a look six English players to watch out for. This time around it’s the U20s who kick off their campaign against France at 8 pm on 1st February before England Women take on Les Bleus on Sunday.
Richard Capstick – Exeter Chiefs – Back Row
Returning for his second year of U20s action the abrasive back row has been impressive for both University and Club over the past 12 months. Capstick made his Premiership debut late in the season after a successful first campaign for the U20s and will hope that he can build on his performances this season.
Capstick may miss out on a number of the fixtures this season as Exeter are still in the Premiership Rugby Cup and hence could be retained. However, when he does get his opportunity, expect him to be a key part in leading this U20s side.
Alfie Barbeary – Wasps – Hooker
The Wasps hooker received much fanfare when he was named in last season’s squad whilst still at school. The campaign did not go to plan for Barbeary receiving a red card against Ireland. He is back to try and banish those memories and show what he is made of.
Barbeary is currently enjoying a season loan at Nottingham to gain experience. Despite his relative youth expect the experience he has already built up to be invaluable in the tight exchanges for England U20s.
Gabriel Hamer-Webb – Bath – Winger
“He’s been on the pitch for about three-and-a-half seconds!”
What a story! A dream #HeinekenChampionsCup debut for Gabriel Hamer-Webb! ?
The 19-year-old scored with his first touch, a massive try for @bathrugby! ? pic.twitter.com/K0uWL4voxH
— Rugby on BT Sport (@btsportrugby) November 16, 2019
Another player to have already broken through into the Premiership. Hamer-Webb has impressed in both European and domestic competitions this season. His try against Ulster, in particular, will go down as one of the best introductions to top-level rugby.
Naturally, Hamer-Webb is athletically gifted with pace, power and agility making him a handful for even the best defenders. To progress though, Hamer-Webb will need to bring control and composure to his game, especially under the high ball. If he can demonstrate these attributes he will really set himself apart from the rest.
Ollie Sleightholme – Saints – Winger
The clamour to see more of Sleightholme in a Northampton Saints shirt has been huge since he burst onto the Premiership scene against Wasps with a try. However, he faces stiff competition for game time at Saints meaning he has to bide his time.
This England U20s Six Nations campaign could be a real opportunity to make a name for himself. Sleightholme is another powerful runner but the guile and deception to make him a more mature prospect this time around.
Josh Hodge – Newcastle falcons – Fullback
Hodge was recently named as an apprentice player in Eddie Jones’ full Six Nations Squad so his involvement with England U20s may be limited. However, expect him to link up with the age group side at some stage and when he does he will stand out.
Hodge has had a full run in the Newcastle first-team this season and built up a serious highlights reel. When he plays he will bring balance to an England side full of powerful and athletic runners. Hodge brings calmness and composure as well as an ability to bring others into the game. However, he still has the pace to be a genuine threat to any defender.
Connor Doherty – Sale – Centre
Sale seems to be constantly pumping out high-quality centres. In the past, they have had Cam Redpath and the James brothers come through their ranks and Doherty looks to be the next one off the production line.
Doherty is another individual enjoying a first-team run loaned out from the Premiership side to gain experience. The centre offers a variety of skills around the field and should be a mainstay in this England U20s Six Nations squad for the whole tournament which will be invaluable to coach Alan Dickens.
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This list leaves out a number of seriously talented players who will play a big role in the tournament. The likes of JJ Tonks, Sam Maunder, and Rus Tuima are names that definitely deserve a mention.
It is also worth pointing out that given the nature of the Championship expect a lot of rotation. Generally speaking, no one tends to play all five weeks. As a result, expect unknown players to come out the woodwork and impress us all from seemingly nowhere.
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France v England – Stade des Alpes, Grenoble. Saturday, 1 February (8pm GMT).
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