Here is the rewritten version of the rugby union news article, incorporating the specified Markdown enhancements:
BBC Rugby Union News: Kyle Sinckler to Leave England National Rugby Union Team After Toulon Move
In a significant development in the world of rugby union, prop Kyle Sinckler has announced his decision to leave the England national rugby union team after his move to French giants Toulon was officially confirmed. Sinckler’s decision follows a host of other English Test stars, including Jack Willis, Henry Arundell, Jack Nowell and Joe Marchant, who have already made the switch to play their club rugby in France’s TOP14 league.
Sinckler, who has earned 68 caps for the England national rugby union team, will be joined by fellow international Owen Farrell, Manu Tuilagi and Lewis Ludlam, all of whom will be playing their club rugby in the TOP14 next season. The controversial selection rule in English rugby means that players must be employed by one of the 10 Gallagher Premiership sides to be eligible for the national team, a decision that has led to the exodus of several high-profile stars.
Reflecting on his time at Bristol, Sinckler expressed his gratitude to the club, the Lansdown family, and the support staff, acknowledging the “huge success” the team has experienced during his four-year tenure. The 30-year-old prop also emphasized his commitment to finishing the season strongly with Bristol, with five crucial games remaining in the regular season.
Rugby Union News: Ludlam to Join Sinckler at Toulon
Alongside Sinckler, Lewis Ludlam will also be making the move to Toulon, reuniting with his former Northampton teammates Dan Biggar and Dave Ribbans. Toulon club president Bernard Lemaitre praised the two signings, stating that they fit the profiles the club is seeking in their recruitment process, with a focus on “mentality, behavior and lifestyle of players.”
The departure of Sinckler and Ludlam from the England national rugby union team, as a result of the controversial selection rule, is a significant blow for Steve Borthwick’s side as they prepare for the upcoming Rugby World Cup final in France later this year. Fans and pundits alike will be closely following the progress of these players in the TOP14 league and the impact their absence could have on the England national rugby union team’s performance in the prestigious tournament.
🔗 Source
