I Was Borthwick's First England Debutant – Now I Want to Switch Nations
01/21/2025 04:59 AM
England winger Ollie Hassell-Collins has revealed he's open to representing Wales at the 2027 Rugby World Cup if his England career continues to stall.
Find your local Greene King and settle in for the 2025 Six Nations!
The 25-year-old, who earned two caps during the Six Nations, hasn't been part of Steve Borthwick's plans since. With no signs of a recall, the Leicester Tigers star could switch allegiance under World Rugby's eligibility rules.
From February 2026, Hassell-Collins will qualify to play for Wales—a year before the next World Cup—and Warren Gatland has already hinted he'd happily welcome the winger into his squad.
Hassell-Collins hasn't ruled it out either.
Two Caps and Counting – England's Loss, Wales' Gain?
Speaking to The Telegraph, Hassell-Collins didn't shy away from the possibility of donning the red jersey if opportunities with England remain scarce.
“I have seen Gatland's interview. I've got two caps for England, and obviously I'm English. But if I don't see anything in the next few years then it's definitely something that I would consider.
From the Six Nations to the Valleys?
Hassell-Collins would qualify for Wales in February 2026, just in time to make a splash in Gatland's World Cup squad. And the winger is well aware of his Welsh roots.
“I would qualify [for Wales] the year of the World Cup – that is, if he still wants me. Wales is still part of who I am. My grandma was Welsh and I still have family over there.
Family Ties – “It's still a part of me”
Despite being firmly committed to England for now, Hassell-Collins left the door wide open for a change in allegiance.
“It's still a part of me – and I'd never turn it down – but for now it's England for me.”
Could Hassell-Collins be the wildcard weapon Gatland needs for 2027? Only time will tell.
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The Top Five Overrated Six Nations Rugby Players
#5. George North (Wales)
Born in 1992, George North burst onto the scene as a teenage sensation, scoring two tries on his international debut against South Africa in 2010. Known for his blistering pace and physicality, the versatile wing and centre became one of Wales’ most recognisable players during their Six Nations triumphs in 2012 and 2013. However, injuries and inconsistent form have seen his performances decline in recent years, leading to criticism of his ongoing hype.
“He had a few good years between 2011-2013 and then he has died down. Hasn’t looked good as the commentary teams make him out to be.”
"George bloody North!"
#4. Chris Ashton (England)
Chris Ashton, born in 1987, began his career in rugby league before switching codes and becoming one of England's most prolific try-scorers in union. Famous for his signature “Ash Splash” try celebration, Ashton thrived at clubs like Northampton Saints and Saracens. He earned 44 caps for England, scoring 20 tries, but his career has often been marred by criticism of his defensive frailties and reliance on finishing the work of others.
“Lazy player with a terrible workrate, decent positioning at times that sees him finish off the good work of other players and get all the undeserved credit. Poor tackler too.”
"That man lived off his 'solo' try against Australia and managed to get in the England team every time. He couldn't tackle a crossword!"
#3. Alun Wyn Jones (Wales)
Born in 1985, Alun Wyn Jones is a Welsh rugby icon and the most capped international player of all time, with 170 caps for Wales and 12 for the British & Irish Lions. Known for his leadership, grit, and longevity, Jones has been instrumental in numerous Six Nations championships and Lions tours. However, some critics argue that his late-career performances haven't matched the hype surrounding his legendary status.
“At this point he only gets chosen because Wales Online will go nuclear and blow up Cardiff if he doesn’t.”
“I really, really don't understand why he is rated so highly.”
One fan clapped back, saying: “Maybe he's got 12 Lions caps in a row, numerous Six Nations titles, and two World Player of the Year nominations because he's one of the greatest locks of all time… maybe.”
#2. Sergio Parisse (Italy)
Sergio Parisse, born in Argentina in 1983, is widely regarded as one of Italy's greatest-ever players. The dynamic No. 8 earned 142 caps for the Azzurri over two decades, showcasing incredible skills, leadership, and flair. However, many critics believe his reputation was inflated due to being a standout performer in an otherwise struggling Italy team, with claims he prioritised flashy moments over substance.
“Sure, he had fantastic skills, but he was a show pony and not a workhorse.”
“Never has a cliché fit a player more than 'overrated show pony' for Sergio Parisse."
#1. Sébastien Chabal (France)
Born in 1977, Sébastien Chabal is one of rugby's most recognisable figures, thanks to his imposing frame and iconic beard. Nicknamed “The Caveman,” Chabal earned 62 caps for France, playing across the back row and second row. While he became a global cult hero for his bone-crunching tackles and fearsome persona, critics argue his overall impact on matches didn't justify the hype surrounding him.
“His appearance was half his reputation. Whenever he was given the appropriate attention, he folded.”
“Good 6, terrible 8, even worse lock.”
So, there you have it. Whether you agree or not, these players have sparked endless debates among rugby fans. One thing's for sure—being called “overrated” doesn't take away from their place in rugby's history books.
Quiz: Can you all of the Guinness Six Nations winning captains?
Securing victory in the Guinness Six Nations is undoubtedly special, but achieving this triumph as a captain is a feat that remains a distant dream for many.
In the storied history of Rugby’s Greatest Championship, exceptional leaders have emerged—warriors of various forms, be they agile half-backs, towering second rows, or fearless flankers.
Our latest quiz invites you to identify those who have captained their nations to Guinness Six Nations glory. It’s worth noting that in certain instances, there may be multiple captains from the same year due to factors such as injuries and rotation.
Surnames only will be accepted.
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