The 2026 Six Nations is shaping up to be a thrilling tournament, but England's squad selection has already sparked intense debate. With several big names missing out, the team is a fascinating blend of established stars and exciting newcomers. Let's dive into the lineup and explore the choices that have everyone talking.
Scrum-half: Alex Mitchell, Ben Spencer, Raffi Quirke
Alex Mitchell and Ben Spencer are no-brainers, but the inclusion of Raffi Quirke is where things get interesting. After a sluggish start to the season, Quirke has roared back to form with Sale, showcasing the explosive talent that first caught everyone's eye. But here's where it gets controversial: while his versatility and ability to cover the wing are undeniable, his inconsistency has some fans questioning whether he's truly ready for this stage. Is he a risk worth taking, or should England have opted for a safer bet?
Fly-half: George Ford, Fin Smith, Marcus Smith
This is the position that has everyone buzzing. All three fly-halves have proven their worth, leaving Steve Borthwick with a headache of the best kind. George Ford's experience, Fin Smith's rising star, and Marcus Smith's flair all bring something unique to the table. And this is the part most people miss: the real debate isn't about who makes the squad, but who gets the starting nod. Who do you think should lead England's attack?
Centre: Fraser Dingwall, Ollie Lawrence, Max Ojomoh
Ollie Lawrence's return from injury is a massive boost, and his seamless reintegration during the autumn tests speaks volumes. Fraser Dingwall remains the glue that holds England's attack together, while Max Ojomoh has earned his spot with stellar club performances and a standout display against Argentina. But here's a thought: with Ojomoh still relatively untested at the highest level, is this selection a bold move or a gamble?
Back three: Tommy Freeman, Tom Roebuck, Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, Elliot Daly, Freddie Steward, Noah Caluori
Tommy Freeman's versatility keeps him in the mix, though his role remains fluid. Tom Roebuck and Immanuel Feyi-Waboso are expected to feature, provided Roebuck shakes off his toe injury. Elliot Daly's adaptability is always a plus, and Freddie Steward's autumn performances have cemented his place at full-back. The wildcard here is Noah Caluori. The Saracens prodigy is a talent for the future, but is throwing him into the Six Nations cauldron too soon, or is this the perfect time to blood him for 2027 and beyond?
Final Thoughts
England's 2026 Six Nations squad is a fascinating mix of experience and potential, but it's not without its question marks. What do you think? Are Borthwick's selections spot on, or are there players you'd have included instead? Let us know in the comments—this is one debate that's sure to keep rugby fans talking all the way to kickoff.
