2023-06-12 14:19:32
Former Montpellier number 8 Zach Mercer has been called up by the England coach. JOHN SIBLEY / PANORAMIC
England coach Steve Borthwick unveiled on Monday a pre-list of 28 players called up to prepare for the Rugby World Cup. A first group without the players of the semi-finalist teams of the English championship, Leicester, Northampton, Sale and Saracens.
As expected, the former third line of Montpellier and future player of Gloucester, Zach Mercer, returns to the English selection, he whose last selection dates back to November… 2018. A return and an absence at the position of n°8. That of Sam Simmonds, the third line of the Exeter Chiefs, who is doing the opposite since he has signed up with the MHR.
Yet in great shape, he would be, according to the Mirror, “self-excluded” after a discussion with his coach, favoring his integration into the Hérault club over participation in the World Cup.
Note the presence in this first group of two veterans of London Harlequins, prop Joe Marler and scrum half Danny Care. A newcomer is eagerly awaited: Gloucester star Val Rapava-Ruskin. Of Georgian origin, the 30-year-old pillar could finally honor a first selection.
”
data-script=”
>
#Montpelliérain #Zach #Mercer #prelist #England