In a bold move that signals a new era for English rugby, head coach Steve Borthwick is preparing to hand 19-year-old sensation Henry Pollock a shock call-up to the senior England squad following his extraordinary breakthrough season.
The Teenage Tornado Taking Rugby by Storm
The Northampton Saints openside flanker, who only turned professional this year, has generated such explosive form that he's forced his way into Borthwick's thinking ahead of England's summer tour to Japan and New Zealand. Pollock's meteoric rise has seen him dominate at every level he's played, from England Under-20s to the Premiership.
Current England star Ben Earl has become one of Pollock's biggest admirers, telling the Independent: "He's been unbelievable. He's one of the best players I've seen. He's so explosive, so good over the ball, and he scores tries for fun."
From School Rugby to International Contention
What makes Pollock's potential selection so remarkable is his rapid transition from school rugby at Sedbergh to professional standout. His performances for Northampton have been nothing short of sensational, combining traditional openside skills with remarkable try-scoring ability.
Key attributes that have impressed coaches:
- Exceptional breakdown technique and turnover ability
- Surprising power and physicality for his age
- Natural try-scoring instinct from the back row
- Outstanding work rate and defensive commitment
Borthwick's Youth Revolution Gathers Pace
Pollock's potential inclusion follows Borthwick's recent blooding of other young talents like Immanuel Feyi-Waboso and Chandler Cunningham-South. The England coach appears committed to building a squad capable of challenging for the 2027 World Cup in Australia.
The summer tour presents the perfect opportunity to integrate Pollock into the senior setup without immediate pressure to start test matches. His development could mirror that of Tom Curry, who burst onto the international scene as a teenager and never looked back.
What This Means for England's Back Row
Pollock's emergence adds exciting depth to an already competitive back row department. With Earl establishing himself as a key figure and Sam Underhill returning to form, England suddenly boast enviable options at openside flanker.
The teenager's potential call-up represents not just reward for outstanding individual performances, but a clear statement of intent from Borthwick about the direction of English rugby. As one source close to the squad noted: "When talent this special comes along, you don't wait around."
