Jack Willis set to return to England ahead of 2027 Rugby World Cup
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England flanker Jack Willis has committed his future to French giants Toulouse by signing a four-year deal, but the door isn’t entirely closed on his World Cup 2027 dreams.
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RFU Rules Put a Block on Overseas Players
Under current Rugby Football Union (RFU) regulations, England won't select overseas-based players for World Cup duty. This seemingly shuts the door for Willis, who has been a standout performer in France’s Top 14.
But according to the Telegraph, a lifeline could be in place—a break clause in Willis' contract that would allow him to sign for a Premiership club for the 2027-28 season, potentially making him eligible for England's campaign in Australia.
A Meeting with Borthwick: Return to the Premiership or Bust
Willis has already sat down with England head coach Steve Borthwick and Conor O’Shea, RFU's executive director of performance rugby. Their message? He needs to come back to the Premiership if he wants to be seriously considered for England selection.
Bristol Bears have shown strong interest, and Saracens—where his brother Tom plays—has also been linked as a potential landing spot for the 27-year-old.
Settled in the Pink City: Life in Toulouse
Despite the England-related talks, Willis’ new four-year deal highlights how comfortable he's become in Toulouse. The club has helped his family, including his two young children, settle in.
"I love it here," said Willis. "The club has been fantastic, and settling my family here has been a priority. When Wasps folded, it was an emotional time, and moving to another English club felt overwhelming. Coming to Toulouse has been an escape and a blessing, with titles like the Top 14 and Champions Cup to enjoy.”
2027 World Cup: Still a Possibility?
With the break clause in place, Willis might just have one last chance to wear the England jersey on the world stage. It all depends on whether he chooses to return home for the 2027-28 season.
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Five British and Irish Lions hopefuls who FLOPPED in Six Nations round three
Steve Borthwick's men survived a late scare as Finn Russell's conversion slid wide, allowing them to snatch their first win over Scotland since 2020. Meanwhile, Wales looked revitalized under Matt Sherratt, producing their best display of the tournament so far.
But who had a weekend to forget? RUCK Editor Steve Smith takes a look at five players who struggled in round three.
Henry Slade – England
So much talent, yet another disappointing display on the international stage. Slade had a torrid time against Scotland, missing key tackles that left England exposed.
His defensive lapses piled pressure on his teammates, while his attacking contribution was minimal—offering little creativity in midfield. With fierce competition for places, could this be the end of the road for him under Steve Borthwick?
Nowhere near the Lions conversation right now.
Finn Russell – Scotland
A night to forget for Scotland's co-captain. While his passing and movement constantly tested England's defence, his goal-kicking proved costly.
In a game of fine margins, his missed kicks—especially the late conversion that drifted wide—ultimately defined the result. A fly-half of his quality is expected to deliver in clutch moments, and he'll know he left points behind. Scotland fans won't let this one slide easily.
The Lions will want their No. 10 to be reliable off the tee. Fin Smith and Sam Prendergast are breathing down his neck.
Jack Dempsey – Scotland
Struggled to make his mark in an intense physical battle. He carried with intent but was let down by handling errors and poor decision-making at key moments.
Scotland needed stability in the back row, but Dempsey was too often on the fringes rather than in the thick of it. A frustrating afternoon where his effort wasn't matched by execution, leaving Scotland's pack without the control he was expected to bring.
The No. 8 jersey for the Lions remains up for grabs, though Caelan Doris leads the charge for the 2025 tour.
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