Is Ilione the Next Big Powerhouse in Rugby?

Emeka Ilione has emerged as a key player for Leicester Tigers and has now caught the attention of England's rugby selectors, particularly following the exclusion of Tom Willis. With his versatility and powerful play, Ilione has the potential to make a significant impact in the upcoming autumn internationals.

Last updated: 03 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Emeka Ilione is gaining recognition for his strength and tactical intelligence in rugby.
• Tom Willis has been left out of the England squad due to his move to Bordeaux-Begles.
• Ilione's performances for Leicester have made him a strong candidate for the national team.
• England's autumn internationals begin on 1 November against Australia.
• England head coach Steve Borthwick is focusing on players who will contribute long-term.

Ilione’s Rising Star

At just 23 years old, Emeka Ilione has quickly established himself as a formidable presence on the field. Starting at number eight for Leicester in a recent match against Northampton, he showcased the skills that have impressed England head coach Steve Borthwick. Under Borthwick’s guidance, Ilione is being positioned as a key player for the upcoming autumn internationals.

What Makes Ilione Stand Out?

Ilione’s performance has been characterised by two main strengths: his ability to win turnovers and his effective carrying through traffic. Borthwick highlighted that Ilione is adept at securing jackal turnovers while maintaining discipline, which is crucial for avoiding penalties. This balance of aggression and control sets him apart from many other back-row players.

Moreover, Ilione’s capacity to carry the ball tightly to the breakdown is noteworthy. Many flankers tend to carry the ball wider, but Ilione excels at pushing through defenders in congested areas. His physicality and mindset have been instrumental in his development. He has stated that he feels the strongest and fittest he has ever been, a sentiment that resonates with his on-field performances.

Impact of Tom Willis’ Exclusion

The exclusion of Tom Willis has opened up opportunities for players like Ilione. Willis, who has led the league in carries and defenders beaten, announced his move to Bordeaux-Begles, which has rendered him ineligible for national selection. Borthwick acknowledged Willis as a remarkable player and expressed his understanding of the challenging decision Willis faced.

While Willis has been an asset for both Saracens and England, his absence means that the current squad lacks a specialist number eight. The coaching staff may need to adapt their strategies, with players like Ben Earl and Henry Pollock filling the role as needed. This situation highlights the importance of Ilione’s versatility and readiness to step up.

Looking Ahead to Autumn Internationals

England’s autumn campaign is set to kick off against Australia on 1 November, followed by matches against Fiji, New Zealand, and Argentina. Borthwick is keen to develop a squad that can compete effectively in the long term, particularly with the 2023 Rugby World Cup on the horizon.

Ilione’s inclusion in the training camp signifies the trust Borthwick has in his abilities. The England coach is focusing on nurturing players who not only show promise but also possess the potential to grow within the team framework. Ilione’s performance during this training camp will be pivotal in determining his role in the upcoming matches.

Training Dynamics and Player Development

Borthwick has been proactive in identifying young talent, such as 19-year-old Noah Caluori, who has recently been called up following an impressive performance for Saracens. This commitment to scouting fresh talent indicates a strategic shift towards building a robust and dynamic team for future competitions.

Caluori’s addition, alongside Ilione, reflects Borthwick’s vision of cultivating a new generation of players who can make significant contributions on the international stage. The emphasis on youth and potential is likely to shape England’s approach in the coming months.

Owen Farrell’s Absence

Another notable absence from the training group is former England captain Owen Farrell, who is currently focusing on his club commitments with Saracens. Borthwick has indicated that discussions regarding Farrell’s future with the national team are not a priority at this moment. Farrell’s decision to step back from international rugby, particularly after a challenging summer, has raised questions about his role moving forward.

While Farrell’s experience and leadership are invaluable, Borthwick’s focus remains on assembling a squad that can perform well in the long term. Balance between seasoned players and emerging talents will be crucial as England navigates the autumn fixtures.

Chris Robshaw’s Visit and Team Morale

In a lighter note, Borthwick mentioned that former captain Chris Robshaw was scheduled to visit the training camp as part of his filming for Strictly Come Dancing. However, Robshaw was voted off the programme, which Borthwick acknowledged with a mix of respect for Robshaw’s new ventures and disappointment at not having him in camp.

This anecdote underscores the camaraderie within the squad and the respect players have for each other’s pursuits outside of rugby. It also highlights the evolving nature of player engagements and how former players can inspire current athletes in various capacities.

The Path Forward for England Rugby

With a blend of established players and fresh talent, England is at a pivotal moment in its rugby journey. The upcoming autumn internationals will serve as a critical ground for assessing player capabilities and squad dynamics ahead of future competitions.

Ilione’s growth and contributions will be under the microscope, as will the adaptations the coaching staff need to make in response to changes within the squad. As England gears up for a competitive season, the focus will be on building a resilient and cohesive unit ready to face formidable opponents.

The excitement surrounding the autumn internationals is palpable, and fans will be keen to see how the new squad members fare. Will this new direction yield the results England hopes for? Only time will tell as the team embarks on this important journey.

FAQs

Who is Emeka Ilione?

Emeka Ilione is a 23-year-old rugby player who plays for Leicester Tigers and has recently been included in the England training camp due to his impressive performances.

Why was Tom Willis excluded from the England squad?

Tom Willis was left out of the England squad following his announcement to join Bordeaux-Begles, which rendered him ineligible for national selection.

What are the key strengths of Emeka Ilione?

Ilione is known for his ability to secure jackal turnovers, carry effectively through traffic, and maintain a low penalty count, making him a valuable asset on the field.

When do England's autumn internationals begin?

England's autumn internationals will kick off on 1 November against Australia, followed by matches against Fiji, New Zealand, and Argentina.

What is Steve Borthwick's strategy for the England team?

Steve Borthwick aims to invest in players who will contribute to England’s long-term success, particularly with an eye on the next Rugby World Cup.

As the autumn campaign approaches, the spotlight on Ilione and his peers will intensify. How will these young talents shape the future of English rugby? #RugbyUnion #EmekaIlione #EnglandRugby