Fergus Burke Declares Intention to Play for England or Scotland, Set to Join Saracens
Rugby union prospect Fergus Burke has put both the England and Scotland national teams on high alert, declaring his ambition to represent either country at the international level. The 24-year-old New Zealand-born player will join the English club Saracens this summer, replacing former England captain Owen Farrell, who is departing for French side Racing 92.
Burke’s Dual Eligibility and International Aspirations
Burke, who hails from the Crusaders in Super Rugby, qualifies for England, Scotland, and even the All Blacks due to his dual heritage. The talented fly-half was previously of interest to United Rugby Championship winners Glasgow Warriors, and Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend is known to be a big admirer of his abilities.
“I have big ambitions to play international rugby,” Burke stated. “First things first, I need to come over here (to England) and play well for Saracens, and whatever happens in that space, happens. It’s exciting.”
With his mother being English and his grandfather Scottish, Burke’s international eligibility has opened up intriguing possibilities for both the England and Scotland national teams.
Potential Fit for England and Scotland
Scotland’s current playmaker and captain, Finn Russell, is 31 years old, so Townsend is likely looking to the future, where Burke could potentially fit in. Meanwhile, England head coach Steve Borthwick, who is well-stocked with young fly-halves like Marcus Smith and Fin Smith, may also have Burke on his radar for the upcoming campaign.
“Lots of boys have come over here (to England) and make it work,” Burke said. “You look at Ethan and Chandler (Cunningham-South) and boys like that. It is exciting. It is a different challenge, and I am looking forward to it.”
Joining Saracens and Filling Owen Farrell’s Boots
Burke arrived in England for the first time last week and played for the Barbarians in their win over Fiji at Twickenham. He will now have the unenviable task of filling the boots of former England captain Owen Farrell at Saracens, a challenge he is eager to take on.
“I’m my own player, but I have ultimate respect for what Owen’s done at Saracens. He will probably go down as the greatest ever. It’s awesome, and I’m looking forward to joining the club,” Burke said.
With his recovery from an Achilles injury, Burke is eager to hit the ground running in England and prove his worth to both the England and Scotland national teams, making for an intriguing storyline in the upcoming rugby union season.
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