England’s Next Generation Eyed for 2027 World Cup Glory
Published: May 16, 2024 | Updated: May 16, 2024
England’s most capped men’s player, Ben Youngs, has issued a rallying cry to the country’s next generation of rugby talent, insisting they have what it takes to lift the World Cup trophy in Australia in 2027.
After a promising end to this year’s Six Nations, which included a win over eventual champions Ireland and a narrow defeat against France, Steve Borthwick’s side now faces a summer tour with games against Japan and a two-test series against New Zealand.
The 34-year-old Youngs, who retired from international duty after helping England finish third at last year’s World Cup, believes the likes of Marcus and Fin Smith, Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, and Tommy Freeman are primed to make their mark in the next four-year cycle.
“England won it in 2003 in Australia, so why can’t they win in 2027 in Australia?” said Youngs. “We’ve got four years leading into the next one and England have every chance in my eyes.”
Youngs hailed England’s 23-22 victory over Ireland in March as a “real turning point” that will boost the team’s confidence going forward. With experienced campaigners like Courtney Lawes and Owen Farrell moving on from international duty, the door is open for a new generation to step up.
As Borthwick finalizes his squad for the upcoming matches against Japan and the All Blacks, the final day of the Gallagher Premiership season on Saturday will provide the England boss with a chance to assess the form of several key players. Harlequins’ fly-half Marcus Smith is among the exciting young talents in the mix.
England’s last two World Cup campaigns have ended in defeat to South Africa, but Youngs believes the class of 2027 can finally end the country’s wait for a second global triumph since their famous victory in Australia in 2003.
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