Gloucester lock Jonno Balding is set to be named in England’s squad for the 2026 World Rugby Junior World Championship, continuing a remarkable sporting legacy that stretches through generations of the Balding family.
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The 19-year-old second-row is one of the country’s most highly-rated young forwards and has earned his place in England’s travelling squad for the tournament in Georgia after impressing for both Gloucester and England U20s.
Balding comes from one of Britain’s best-known sporting families. His aunt, Clare Balding, is one of the nation’s most recognisable sports broadcasters and was a successful amateur jockey before moving into television.
His father, Andrew Balding, is a leading horse racing trainer and runs the famous Kingsclere Stables, while his grandfather Ian Balding enjoyed a distinguished career both as a Bath Rugby player and later as one of Britain’s most respected trainers.
Ian, who passed away earlier this year aged 87, trained horses for both Queen Elizabeth II and the Queen Mother. The family’s sporting pedigree extends even further, with Jonno’s great-grandfather Gerald Balding having been a British champion polo player.
Despite the family’s strong links to horse racing, Jonno chose rugby from an early age and has quickly risen through the ranks at Gloucester.
Speaking previously about his rugby journey, Balding credited his grandfather Ian as the inspiration behind his decision to pursue the sport.
“I started when I was four or five at Overton Rugby Club, which is near where I live,” he said.
“On a Sunday morning with dad, we’d go and play touch rugby. That’s where it started for me. It was great fun and it’s part of what got me into the sport.
“My grandfather was quite a good player, he played for Bath, and it was him that got me interested in the sport. It was his footsteps I wanted to follow in.
I'm Clare Balding's 6ft 9in nephew. I want to win the Rugby World Cup with England: JONNO BALDING on being cheeky with the late Queen while training her horses, how famous aunt is helping his Gloucester career and horse racing royalty in his family https://t.co/Gd6FMKmBlQ
— Daily Mail (@DailyMail) February 25, 2026
“We come from a very competitive family, whatever sport it is, even board games get competitive.”
England will head to Georgia looking to challenge for world honours, with Balding among a talented group hoping to make their mark on the international stage.
The tournament represents another significant step in the development of the towering Gloucester forward, who is widely regarded as one of England’s brightest young prospects in the second row.
England U20 Men’s 2026 World Rugby Junior World Championship fixtures
(Warm-up friendly) Italy U20 Men vs. England U20 Men – Friday 12th June, venue and kick-off time TBC
England vs. Ireland – Saturday 27th June, 12:30 BST – Avchala Stadium, Tbilisi
England vs. USA – Thursday 2nd July, 15:00 BST – Avchala Stadium, Tbilisi
Argentina vs. England – Tuesday 7th July, 12:30 BST – Avchala Stadium, Tbilisi
Matchday 4 – Sunday 12th July & Monday 13th July – AIA Arena, Kutaisi or Avchala Stadium, Tbilisi
Quiz: Name these 10 retro rugby players
From jaw-dropping tries to unforgettable moments (and yes, some questionable haircuts), these players defined a golden era of the game. If their names don’t instantly come to mind, we suggest a quick trip to YouTube to jog your memory. Trust us, it’s worth it.
Ready to test your knowledge? Let’s see if you’ve still got it. Good luck!
