The 2026 Nations Championship has brought a host of talent to the forefront, and it's time to dive into the performances of England's players. With a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars, the team has faced challenges and triumphs alike. Here's a breakdown of the ratings and a deeper dive into the players' contributions.
Outside Backs
Marcus Smith
Marcus Smith's performance at full-back was a standout, showcasing his adaptability and growth in the position. His ability to improve with each Test, especially in the new attack where he was given more freedom, is a testament to his skill. The fact that he also filled in at scrum-half adds to his versatility and makes him a valuable asset to the team. 7/10
Immanuel Feyi-Waboso
Immanuel Feyi-Waboso's role shift, allowing him to come off his wing and get his hands on the ball, brought out the best in him. His performance against Los Pumas was particularly impressive, making him a point of difference. This should be a key consideration for England's future strategy. 8/10
Tommy Freeman
Tommy Freeman's return to the wing was a success, with his aerial prowess and ball-in-hand skills on full display. His performance against Fiji and Argentina, including a try and a role in Smith's poacher's effort, showcases his potential to stay in the starting lineup. 7/10
Cadan Murley
Cadan Murley's campaign was cut short due to injury, but his performance against the Springboks was solid. 5/10
Noah Caluori
Noah Caluori's debut was a positive one, with a try and an assist against Fiji. His willingness to take risks and make himself busy is a good sign for the future. 6/10
Centres
Henry Slade
Henry Slade's performance was a reminder of his capabilities at this level. His positive impact on the team in attack and solid defense make him a key player. 7/10
Seb Atkinson
Seb Atkinson's campaign was his best with the Test team, showcasing his ability to step in at first receiver and support Smith's deeper positioning. His strong work in defense further cements his importance to the team. 7/10
Benhard Janse van Rensburg
Benhard Janse van Rensburg's maiden caps were a credit to his performance, with a try against Fiji and a dual-threat playmaking and carrying style. His outing against Argentina was cut short due to injury, but his overall performance is promising. 6/10
Half-backs
Fin Smith
Fin Smith's campaign was a big one, and he certainly settled the debate around the number 10 shirt. His vice-grip over the attack, clever kicks, and impressive defense make him a strong contender for the shirt. 8/10
Jack van Poortvliet
Jack van Poortvliet's performance was a testament to his execution of his role, combining well with Smith and Atkinson. His tempo-injecting style and threat to the attack make him a key player. 7/10
Alex Mitchell
Alex Mitchell's return from injury was cut short due to a similar setback. His tough time against the Springboks highlights the challenges he faces. 5/10
Ben Spencer
Ben Spencer's limited appearances were due to a hint of injury, but his performance when given the chance was solid. 5/10
Back-row
Ben Earl
Ben Earl's impact on the England side is undeniable, with his carrying load and defensive work. His consistency and superb performance make him a cornerstone of the team. 8/10
Guy Pepper
Guy Pepper's growth in his role is evident, with a real threat in and around the breakdown. His solid defense and business-like approach please the head coach. 7/10
Ollie Chessum
Ollie Chessum's shift to the back-row has been successful, with his world-class tight exchanges and lineout leadership. His importance to the team is reflected in his full playing time. 7/10
Henry Pollock
Henry Pollock's performance against Fiji and Argentina was impactful, but his quietness against the Springboks is a point of debate. Borthwick's dilemma is a testament to his talent. 7/10
Tom Curry
Tom Curry's solid efforts were consistent but not spectacular. 6/10
Locks
Alex Coles
Alex Coles' performance was consistently strong, with a focus on defense and leadership. His ability to get involved in the loose and tackle makes him a key player. 7/10
George Martin
George Martin's return to the Test stage was seamless, with his enforcer role and strong pack presence. 7/10
Charlie Ewels
Charlie Ewels' cameo against the Springboks was uneventful but solid. 5/10
Front-row
Joe Heyes
Joe Heyes' exceptional performance at tighthead is a sight to behold, with his work around the park and dominant scrum. 8/10
Asher Opoku-Fordjour
Asher Opoku-Fordjour's work at both loosehead and tighthead was impressive, with attacking intent. His injury against Argentina was a setback. 6/10
George Kloska
George Kloska's Test debut against Fiji was promising, but the harder task against Los Pumas was a challenge. 6/10
Jamie George
Jamie George's consistency as a rock for the side is evident, with strong lineout and scrum performances. 7/10
Luke Cowan-Dickie
Luke Cowan-Dickie's nuts-and-bolts approach was solid, with strong set-piece and defensive contributions. 6/10
Ellis Genge
Ellis Genge's loosehead performance was superb, with a dominant scrum and physicality in tight exchanges. 8/10
Beno Obano
Beno Obano's limited appearances were due to injury, but his potential as a top prop is evident. 5/10
Emmanuel Iyogun
Emmanuel Iyogun's Test debut was promising, but a yellow card marred his performance. 5/10
In conclusion, the 2026 Nations Championship has showcased the depth of talent within the England team. With a mix of seasoned players and rising stars, the future looks bright for the team, and the ratings reflect the players' contributions to the campaign.
