In the heart of Leicester's training ground, a compelling changing of the guard is quietly unfolding as Joe HeyES positions himself to inherit the England number three jersey from veteran Dan Cole.
The 24-year-old tighthead prop has become an indispensable asset for Leicester Tigers, making 21 appearances this season and demonstrating the kind of form that catches national selectors' attention. With Cole now 36 and contemplating retirement, HeyES represents the future of English front-row play.
Learning from a Master
HeyES's development has been accelerated by training alongside Cole, one of English rugby's most experienced campaigners. "Having Coley there has been massive for my career," HeyES revealed. "He's someone who's been through everything in the game - World Cups, Lions tours, Premiership titles."
The young prop acknowledges the unique advantage of learning from someone who's faced every challenge in international rugby. "When you're scrummaging against him every day in training, you're essentially facing international-quality opposition constantly. That exposure is invaluable."
International Experience Building
While HeyES earned his first England cap back in 2021 against Canada, his journey to becoming a regular starter has been methodical. His recent inclusion in Steve Borthwick's squad signals growing confidence in his abilities at the highest level.
"Every young tighthead in England looks at that number three jersey as the ultimate goal," HeyES admitted. "But I'm focused on continuing to develop my game at Leicester first. The international recognition will follow if I perform consistently for my club."
The Leicester Production Line Continues
Leicester Tigers have long been renowned for developing world-class front row players, and HeyES appears to be the latest product of their esteemed production line. His technical proficiency in the scrum combined with improving work rate in open play makes him the prototype modern tighthead.
With Cole's career winding down, the transition at both club and country level seems increasingly inevitable. HeyES's progression suggests English rugby may have found its long-term solution at tighthead prop, ensuring stability in one of the game's most technically demanding positions.
