Billy Sela Called Up to England Six Nations Squad: Meet the 20-Year-Old Prop
England head coach Steve Borthwick has named 20-year-old Billy Sela in his squad for the 2026 Six Nations Championship, bolstering the team’s options following injuries to Will Stuart and Asher Opoku-Fordjour. The call-up marks a rapid ascent for the young prop, who has impressed with both Bath Rugby and the England U20 team.
Rising Through the Ranks
Sela’s inclusion addresses a pressing need within the England squad. With established props sidelined due to injury, Borthwick has turned to emerging talent, recognizing Sela’s potential to contribute to the championship campaign. The prop has quickly established himself as a player to watch, earning his stripes at the Premiership-defending champions, Bath, and demonstrating his capabilities at the international youth level.
A Profile of the Newest England Prop
Born on April 12, 2005, in Hounslow, England, Vilikesa “Billy” Sela is a formidable physical presence, standing at six foot four inches (192cm) and weighing 18 stone 4 pounds (116kg). He has quickly become a key player for Bath Rugby, becoming the 2956th player to represent the men’s club after making his debut in September 2024.
Before joining Bath, Sela honed his skills at the amateur level with Royal Wootton Bassett. His progression through the England age-grade system – representing the U18, U20, and England A teams – underscores his consistent performance and potential.
From Back Row to Tighthead Prop
Sela’s rugby journey began in the back row before a switch to tighthead prop around 2023. According to Bath Rugby officials, the change was motivated by “his size and dominance,” highlighting his natural attributes for the position. This adaptability and physical prowess have been instrumental in his rapid development.
Praised as an “Exceptional Talent”
The Rugby Football Union’s performance director has lauded Sela as “an exceptional talent,” signaling the high regard in which he is held within the English rugby system. This endorsement further validates Borthwick’s decision to include him in the Six Nations squad.
A Name with Heritage
While known to teammates and coaches as “Billy,” Sela’s given name, Vilikesa, holds special significance for his family. He explained to the BBC that his parents initially preferred he be known by his Fijian name, “seeing more pride in seeing Vilikesa,” but ultimately accommodated his preference for “Billy” on team sheets.
His family background is also steeped in service; his father, Ilaitia, is a veteran of the British Army, having served in both the infantry and the Royal Logistics Corps before becoming a petroleum operator for the Ministry of Defence.
Expert Endorsement
Former England player Chris Ashton has expressed his enthusiasm for Sela’s inclusion, stating that the young prop is “a phenomenal athlete” and that bringing him into the squad was “a no-brainer” to assess his capabilities at the international level.
Balancing Rugby and Academics
Sela is not solely focused on his rugby career; he is also a student at the University of Bath, pursuing a degree in sports performance. Aaron James, Head of Rugby at the university, expressed his delight at Sela’s call-up, noting that he “deserves this opportunity for the work he has put into his performances and his journey.” James added that Sela remains an active member of the university community, attending lectures and training sessions.
Billy Sela’s call-up to the England Six Nations squad represents a significant moment in his burgeoning career, and a promising addition to the national team’s ranks.
