The 2026 Nations Championship has provided an opportunity to assess the performances of England's players, with a particular focus on the key debates and individual contributions. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of the ratings, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of each player, and the broader implications for the team.
Outside Backs
Marcus Smith: Smith's performance at full-back was a standout, showcasing his adaptability and growing comfort in the position. His ability to improve with each Test, especially in the new attack strategy, is a positive sign. The fact that he also filled in at scrum-half demonstrates his versatility and adds to his overall value to the team. A solid performance that cements his place in the starting lineup.
Immanuel Feyi-Waboso: Feyi-Waboso's role shift, allowing him to come off the wing and take on the ball, was a game-changer. This freedom enabled him to become a significant threat, as evidenced by his performance against Los Pumas. His ability to adapt and contribute in different ways is a valuable asset for England.
Tommy Freeman: Freeman's return to the wing was a strategic move, and it paid off. His aerial prowess and ball-handling skills were on full display, especially against Fiji and Argentina. The team's success in utilizing his strengths suggests that this position may be his long-term role.
Cadan Murley: Murley's campaign was cut short due to injury, but his performance against the Springboks was solid. His ability to hold his own at this level bodes well for the future.
Noah Caluori: Caluori's debut was impressive, showcasing his willingness to take risks and contribute positively. His try and assist against Fiji, despite limited playing time against Argentina, highlight his potential as a valuable asset.
Centres
Henry Slade: Slade's performance was a reminder of his capabilities at this level. His consistent positive impact on the team's attack and defense, coupled with his PREM form, makes him a key player. Slade's performance suggests he has earned a permanent spot in the starting lineup.
Seb Atkinson: Atkinson's campaign was a significant step forward. His role as the first receiver, allowing Smith to operate deeper, was a strategic move that paid dividends. His strong defensive work further cements his importance to the team.
Benhard Janse van Rensburg: Janse van Rensburg's maiden caps were promising, with a notable highlight being his try against Fiji. His dual-threat playmaking and carrying skills contributed to England's attack. Despite a head injury ending his outing against Argentina, his overall performance was impressive.
Half-backs
Fin Smith: Smith's campaign was a turning point for both himself and the number 10 shirt. His ability to hold the attack together, combine intent with clever kicks, and excel in defense makes him a strong contender for the starting position. The debate around the shirt seems to be settled, and Smith's performance will likely secure his place.
Jack van Poortvliet: Van Poortvliet's performance was a testament to his consistency and adaptability. His ability to execute his role, combine well with Smith and Atkinson, and inject tempo into the attack is a valuable skill. His performance against the Springboks, in particular, was impressive.
Alex Mitchell: Mitchell's return from injury was cut short due to a recurrence of the injury. His performance against the Springboks was challenging, and his limited playing time is a concern. However, his potential as a key player remains.
Back-row
Ben Earl: Earl's impact on the England side is undeniable. His ability to carry the load, both in the loose and tight, and contribute to defensive work is exceptional. Earl's performance this July further solidifies his importance to the team.
Guy Pepper: Pepper's growth into his role is evident. His threat in and around the breakdown, coupled with his defensive contributions, is a positive sign. Pepper's consistent performance will please the head coach.
Ollie Chessum: Chessum's shift to the back-row has been successful. His world-class performance in tight exchanges and lineout control is a significant asset. His ability to play every minute possible highlights his importance to the team.
Henry Pollock: Pollock's performance this July has created a dilemma for Borthwick. His unique threat against Fiji and Argentina, despite being quieter against the Springboks, suggests he is a valuable player. Pollock's impact off the bench is a key consideration for the coach.
Tom Curry: Curry's efforts were solid but not spectacular. His consistency across the Tests is a positive, but he needs to set the pitch alight to truly stand out.
Locks
Alex Coles: Coles' performance was a standout, with consistent runs and a strong defensive leadership role. His ability to get involved in the loose and tackle effectively is a significant contribution.
George Martin: Martin's return to the Test stage was seamless. His enforcer role and ability to add ballast to the pack are valuable assets. Martin's performance will be a boost for the team.
Front-row
Joe Heyes: Heyes' performance at tighthead was exceptional, rivaling that of any back-rower. His work around the park, particularly in defense, and dominant scrum contributions make him a key player.
Asher Opoku-Fordjour: Opoku-Fordjour's work this July was impressive, with strong scrummaging and attacking intent. His performance was cut short by injury against Argentina, but his overall contribution was positive.
George Kloska: Kloska's Test debut against Fiji was promising, but the challenge against Los Pumas was a test of his skills. His overall performance is a positive sign for his future involvement.
Jamie George: George's consistency as a rock for the side is remarkable. His lineout and scrum contributions are invaluable, and his leadership throughout the campaign is a testament to his importance.
Luke Cowan-Dickie: Cowan-Dickie's performance was a model of consistency and reliability. His defensive and set-piece contributions are essential, and his ability to take no backwards steps is a positive trait.
Ellis Genge: Genge's performance at loosehead was impressive, with strong scrummaging and physicality. His ability to lead the snap and contribute in tight exchanges is a key asset.
Beno Obano: Obano's return to Test level after a long absence was a shame due to injury. His performance against the Springboks was limited, but his potential as a top prop remains.
Emmanuel Iyogun: Iyogun's Test debut was promising, particularly in the loose. His performance was cut short by a yellow card, but his potential is evident.
In summary, the 2026 Nations Championship has provided valuable insights into England's player performances. The ratings and individual contributions highlight the team's strengths and areas for improvement. As the team looks ahead to the November Tests, the coach's dilemma regarding Pollock's role and the overall team dynamics will be a key factor in shaping the future of the England rugby team.
