BBC Rugby Union: Fin Baxter Set for England Squad, Dan Cole to Mentor Newcomer
Harlequins’ Rising Star Poised for International Call-Up
Fin Baxter, the 22-year-old Harlequins prop, is expected to receive his first senior international call-up to the England squad for the upcoming summer tour of Japan and New Zealand. The baby-faced forward will have the chance to learn from veteran teammate Dan Cole, a Test centurion who has just turned 37.
“Despite widespread assumptions that Cole would retire from international duty after the World Cup, the experienced Leicester Tiger is set to embark on another long-haul crusade with the national team.”
In a testament to his enduring quality, the seasoned prop will be tasked with passing on his wisdom to the newcomer in the Red Rose ranks.
Breakthrough Season Earns Baxter’s Inclusion
Baxter’s inclusion in the England squad comes as a reward for his breakthrough season, where he cemented his place in the Harlequins starting lineup. In February, the talented loosehead was named in an England A side that thrashed a young Portugal team 91-5 at Welford Road, indicating that national coach Steve Borthwick sees him as a contender for the No. 1 shirt.
Baxter further enhanced his case last month when he played a key role in Quins’ stunning 42-41 Champions Cup quarter-final victory over Bordeaux in France. The young prop’s remarkable scrum onslaught, in alliance with Will Collier and Jack Walker, was instrumental in the seismic upset.
Opportunity Knocks for Baxter
While Baxter will start on the bench for Harlequins against Exeter this weekend, it is understood that Joe Marler, England’s first-choice loosehead during the World Cup, will not be part of the summer tour. This has opened the door for Borthwick to call up Baxter, alongside Ellis Genge and Bevan Rodd of Sale.
In a recent interview, Baxter expressed his eagerness to play for both England and the British and Irish Lions, stating that it has been his plan since the start. With the opportunity now at hand, the rising prop is determined to seize the moment and make the most of his potential international debut.
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