Close Menu
    What's Hot

    Maro Itoje: Unwavering Commitment to England Rugby Despite Challenges

    November 18, 2024

    Former Welsh Star Criticizes Welsh Rugby Union and Calls for Change

    November 18, 2024

    Wales Back-Rower Wainwright Rallying Behind Coach Gatland Amid Losing Streak

    November 18, 2024
    Facebook X (Twitter) Instagram
    • BBC Rugby Union
    • Rugby Union Gameplay
    • Six Nations
    Rugby Union
    • Home
    • Rugby Union News UK
    • Wales National Rugby Union Team
    RSS
    Rugby Union
    Home ยป Exeter’s Jacques Vermeulen Aiming for England Call-Up – Rugby Union News
    Rugby Union News UK

    Exeter’s Jacques Vermeulen Aiming for England Call-Up – Rugby Union News

    Ezra YggvaldrBy Ezra YggvaldrAugust 28, 2024No Comments3 Mins Read
    Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIn Tumblr Email
    Share
    Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Email

    Rugby Union News: Exeter’s Vermeulen Targets England Call-Up After Impressive Pre-Season

    Exeter’s South African-born forward Jacques Vermeulen has set his sights on an England call-up this season, having returned to the club in top shape to impress head coach Steve Borthwick.

    Vermeulen, who joined Exeter in 2019 after leaving his homeland, has made a significant impact with the Chiefs, contributing to their domestic and European title triumphs. The 29-year-old back-row forward is now eligible to represent England at the Test level next month under World Rugby’s five-year residency rule and is currently in the process of obtaining a British passport.

    “It (international rugby) is always in the back of my mind,” Vermeulen said. “This pre-season, with [England eligibility] in mind, I looked after myself and came back in good nick. First, I have to perform well enough to be selected. We’ll see what happens.”

    Vermeulen’s physical presence and ball-carrying abilities make him an attractive option for England head coach Borthwick, who is known to favor such players. The South African-born forward could provide valuable depth to England’s forward resources and be in contention for the autumn internationals in November.

    “If you perform well enough on the field, then age does not count. If you perform well enough to play for England, then you should,” Vermeulen stated, highlighting his determination to represent his adopted nation. He has yet to have any direct communication with Borthwick but has ruled out a potential call-up from South Africa, his country of birth.

    Exeter director of rugby Rob Baxter has encouraged Vermeulen to train especially hard ahead of the new season, with the prospect of an England call-up in mind. The player himself sees his future firmly in England, where he has made his home with his British partner and son.

    “All my mates have said they’d fly over and come and watch me and support. My mates understand the situation. They’ve asked me for years, saying how I never had a shot with the Boks and asking if I got the opportunity in England, would I take it?” Vermeulen added.

    The relaxation of World Rugby’s eligibility rules has been a topic of discussion, but it reflects the diverse, cross-border nature of modern rugby. Vermeulen would not be the first South African-born player to represent England, joining the likes of Brad Barritt and Matt Stevens, and he remains determined to seize any opportunity to play international rugby.

    ๐Ÿ”— Source

    England National Rugby Union Team pre-season performance rugby union
    Share. Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIn Tumblr Email
    Ezra Yggvaldr

      Related Posts

      Maro Itoje: Unwavering Commitment to England Rugby Despite Challenges

      November 18, 2024

      England’s Rugby Union Dilemma: Fall From Grace or Temporary Setback?

      November 18, 2024

      Rugby Union Leadership Crisis – England and Wales in Need of Strong Direction

      November 18, 2024

      Wallabies Coach Joe Schmidt on Historic Victory and Next Challenge

      November 18, 2024
      Latest Posts

      Maro Itoje: Unwavering Commitment to England Rugby Despite Challenges

      November 18, 2024

      Former Welsh Star Criticizes Welsh Rugby Union and Calls for Change

      November 18, 2024

      Wales Back-Rower Wainwright Rallying Behind Coach Gatland Amid Losing Streak

      November 18, 2024
      • Rugby Union News UK
      • Wales National Rugby Union Team
      © 2025 Privacy Policy

      Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

      Ad Blocker Enabled!
      Ad Blocker Enabled!
      Our website is made possible by displaying online advertisements to our visitors. Please support us by disabling your Ad Blocker.