Toulouse captain Jack Willis once again underlined why he is regarded as one of the best back-rowers in world rugby after producing a player-of-the-match performance in the Top 14 final.
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The former England flanker was outstanding as Toulouse claimed yet another French title, adding fresh fuel to the debate over whether Steve Borthwick will ever be able to call upon him again.
Reports have suggested Willis’ contract contains a break clause that could allow him to return to the Premiership for the 2027-28 season, making him eligible for England’s Rugby World Cup campaign in Australia.
The 29-year-old also becomes eligible to represent Ireland later this year through his Belfast-born grandfather, leading to speculation that he could switch allegiances instead.
However, Willis has played down both possibilities.
Speaking on the For The Love of Rugby podcast, he admitted: “I am quarter Irish… but if it involves moving, then it puts me in the same situation that it would for England.”
He added: “Sometimes you’ve got to accept your reality, and now I feel my reality is pretty good. I’m pretty grateful for being part of this club.”
While Willis has acknowledged there will always be a feeling he had “more to give” in an England shirt, he insists he has no regrets over committing his future to Toulouse, where he has become one of the club’s most influential figures.
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POLL
Alternative England XV:
Back-three
- 15. George Hendy
- 14. Adam Radwan
- 11. Jack Nowell
George Hendy announced himself on the biggest stage by scoring a brace in Northampton Saints’ Premiership final victory over Bath, underlining why many believe an England call-up is only a matter of time.
Adam Radwan remains one of the fastest finishers in the game and enjoyed an outstanding campaign after joining Leicester Tigers, while Jack Nowell brings a wealth of experience, having won more than 40 England caps before continuing his career in France.
Together, it’s a back three packed with pace, finishing ability and big-match pedigree.
Centres
- 13. Ollie Lawrence
- 12. Joe Marchant
This midfield offers the perfect blend of power and guile. Lawrence has established himself as one of Europe’s premier outside centres, while Marchant’s footwork, passing and defensive intelligence have continued to shine in the Top 14. Both are proven Test performers capable of troubling any international defence.
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Half-backs
- 10. Owen Farrell
- 9. Raffi Quirke
Few nations could leave behind a pairing of this quality. Farrell remains one of England’s greatest-ever fly-halves despite stepping away from Test rugby, while Quirke is finally back fit after a frustrating run of injuries and possesses the pace and instinct to unlock any defence.
Front row
- 1. Mako Vunipola
- 2. Kepu Tuipulotu
- 3. Kyle Sinckler
There is a fascinating mix of experience and youth here. Mako Vunipola and Kyle Sinckler boast well over 150 England caps between them and were key figures during England’s run to the 2019 Rugby World Cup final. Completing the front row is highly-rated teenager Kepu Tuipulotu, who many believe has all the attributes to become England’s long-term hooker.
Second row
- 4. Courtney Lawes
- 5. Junior Kpoku
Courtney Lawes may have retired from international rugby, but his leadership, athleticism and versatility remain among the best England have produced. Alongside him is former England Under-20 star Junior Kpoku, who has developed into one of the Top 14’s most exciting young locks since joining Racing 92.
With no current route back into the England setup while playing in France, there is a growing possibility Kpoku could eventually qualify for France through residency—a scenario that would be a major blow for English rugby given his enormous potential.
Back row
- 6. Lewis Ludlam
- 7. Jack Willis
- 8. Tom Willis
This is arguably the strongest area of the team. Ludlam brings relentless energy and leadership, Jack Willis remains one of the world’s elite jackalers despite playing his club rugby in France, while Tom Willis has developed into one of Europe’s most complete No. 8s with his explosive carrying and work around the park. It’s a back row capable of matching almost anyone in world rugby.
Do you agree?
Steve Borthwick had some difficult selection decisions to make, but England’s depth has rarely looked stronger. With established internationals, rising stars and experienced campaigners all missing out for various reasons, this alternative XV certainly wouldn’t look out of place on the Test stage.
Quiz: Name the Top 10 Highest Points Scorers in Rugby History
From legendary fly-halves with metronomic boots to all-time greats who dominated international rugby for more than a decade, these players have piled up points on the sport’s biggest stages.
You have three minutes to name the top 10 highest points scorers in men’s international rugby union history. How many can you get?
