How Good Is Five-Try Caluori? England, Should They Call Him Up?

Noah Caluori has emerged as a promising talent in English rugby union, showcasing his skills during a remarkable full Premiership debut with Saracens. Scoring five tries against Sale Sharks, the 19-year-old winger has drawn attention for his aerial ability and explosive performance, leading former players to advocate for his inclusion in the England national squad.

Last updated: 06 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Noah Caluori scored five tries in his Premiership debut for Saracens.
• His performance has led to calls for his inclusion in the England squad.
• Caluori possesses unique aerial skills that have impressed pundits and coaches alike.
• Despite his success, Saracens' director of rugby advises caution regarding expectations.
• Caluori aims to learn from experienced teammates like Maro Itoje.

A Stellar Debut Performance

Caluori's debut for Saracens was nothing short of sensational. The young winger, standing at an impressive 6ft 5in, proved a formidable challenge for the Sale Sharks' defence throughout the match. His ability to outmanoeuvre defenders both in the air and on the ground was a key factor in Saracens' dominant 65-14 victory.

Breaking Down the Highlights

The match showcased Caluori's potential, with four of his five tries coming in the second half. His knack for finding space and exploiting defensive weaknesses was apparent. Former Wales captain Sam Warburton, commenting as a pundit for TNT Sports, expressed his amazement at Caluori's aerial prowess. "I haven't seen a player this good in the air, ever, and he's a teenager," Warburton remarked, suggesting that England head coach Steve Borthwick should seriously consider including Caluori in the upcoming Autumn internationals.

Expert Opinions on Caluori's Future

Caluori's performance has drawn admiration from various quarters. Chris Ashton, a former England winger, described himself as "lost for words" following the display. He noted that if Caluori continues to play at this level, he could quickly approach Ashton's all-time try-scoring record in the Premiership.

What Makes Caluori Stand Out?

Analysing the match, Ashton highlighted Caluori's ability to glide past players with ease, something rarely seen at such a young age. He praised Caluori's skills in the air, especially during the first half when Sale struggled to contain him. "To get five tries on your first start is... I'm lost for words. It is that good," Ashton said, encapsulating the astonishment felt by those watching.

Respecting the Journey

Despite the enthusiasm surrounding Caluori, Saracens' director of rugby Mark McCall urged caution. He emphasised the importance of allowing the young player to develop at a natural pace without overwhelming expectations. "Everyone has got to take a breath," McCall advised, acknowledging Caluori's potential while reminding fans and pundits that he is still learning the game.

A Unique Talent

McCall praised Caluori's professionalism and maturity, stating that "he's quite a special player and a great kid as well." The director of rugby also highlighted the club's responsibility to protect Caluori from the pressures that come with sudden fame and success. As Caluori continues to evolve as a player, he remains grounded, recognising the need for improvement in various aspects of his game.

Caluori's Reflections

After the match, Caluori expressed his disbelief at his performance, stating, "I'm probably going to watch it back and think 'how did this happen?'" He underscored the importance of teamwork and the goal of being "ruthless" in their approach. Caluori's ambition is evident, as he aims to learn from seasoned professionals like Maro Itoje, who could soon be his teammate on the international stage.

The Road Ahead

As observers speculate on Caluori's future, it's clear his trajectory could lead him to significant achievements both at club and international levels. Warburton's comments about Caluori's unique height and skill set fuel excitement about his potential contributions to the England squad. "I've never seen anyone like him," Warburton noted, suggesting that Caluori's inclusion in the national environment could be imminent if he maintains his form.

Conclusion: A Bright Future Awaits

Noah Caluori's debut performance has not only set the bar high for himself but also raised expectations for young talents in rugby union. As he navigates the pressures of success and fame, the support from Saracens and the rugby community will be crucial in shaping his career. Fans eagerly await to see how Caluori will develop and whether he can continue to impress on both the club and international stages.

With his remarkable skills and dedication, Caluori has the potential to become a standout player for England, but only time will tell how his journey unfolds in the competitive world of rugby union. What new heights might he reach next?

#NoahCaluori #RugbyUnion #Saracens

FAQs

Who is Noah Caluori?

Noah Caluori is a 19-year-old rugby union winger who recently made headlines for scoring five tries in his full Premiership debut for Saracens against Sale Sharks.

What did Caluori achieve in his debut match?

In his debut match, Noah Caluori scored five tries, showcasing his exceptional skills in both aerial and ground play, contributing significantly to Saracens' 65-14 victory over Sale Sharks.

What are the opinions of rugby pundits on Caluori?

Rugby pundits like Sam Warburton and Chris Ashton have praised Caluori's unique talent, particularly his aerial ability, and have suggested he should be considered for the England national squad.

What did Saracens' director of rugby say about Caluori?

Saracens' director of rugby, Mark McCall, acknowledged Caluori's significant potential but also urged caution, emphasising the importance of allowing him to develop without overwhelming expectations.

How does Caluori view his performance?

Caluori expressed disbelief at his achievements during the match, highlighting the importance of teamwork and his desire to learn from experienced teammates.