"Test Debut in 2025 Six Nations" – 5 Uncapped England Hopefuls who impressed in the seventh round of the Premiership

12/02/2024 10:45 AM

The Gallagher Premiership returned with a bang in Round Seven, as clubs resumed their domestic campaigns following the Autumn Nations Series and Premiership Cup. The brief hiatus left little time for waste, as the teams wasted no time reigniting their quest for league dominance.

For some players, it was a chance to transition seamlessly from international duty back into club colours, while others seized the opportunity to prove their worth after a standout Cup campaign. With the table as competitive as ever, every match carried weight, and the stakes are only set to rise as the Champions and Challenge Cups loom on the horizon.

These prestigious European competitions demand consistency and quality, and clubs know the importance of carrying momentum into the next phase of their season. Building cohesion and confidence now could prove pivotal in the weeks ahead, as teams juggle the dual demands of domestic and European rugby.

For England hopefuls, this is also a crucial window to catch the eye of Steve Borthwick ahead of the 2025 Six Nations. With a new World Cup cycle underway, there's a real chance for fresh faces to stake their claim for a call-up. Standout performances in the Premiership and Europe offer the perfect stage to prove they can thrive in the white-hot intensity of international rugby. With competition for places fierce, those who impress now could find themselves wearing the rose come February.

Here are five England hopefuls who impressed, in the seventh round of the 2024/25 Gallagher Premiership.

1. Gabriel Ibitoye (Bristol Bears)

Gabriel Ibitoye was simply electric on Friday night, delivering a Player of the Match performance as Bristol Bears dismantled Harlequins. The dynamic wing was at his devastating best, combining raw pace with razor-sharp footwork to torment the Quins defense all evening. His standout moment came in the second half when he finished off a scintillating counterattacking try that epitomized his attacking brilliance.

Capitalizing on a perfectly timed pass from Kieran Marmion, Ibitoye exploded into space, leaving defenders clutching at thin air as he weaved his way to the try line. It was a moment of pure class and a reminder of why he's one of the most exciting talents in the Premiership. Beyond his try, Ibitoye was a constant threat, racking up significant meters and proving near-impossible to contain in open play.

Having recently impressed against Australia A, Ibitoye has firmly placed himself in contention for an England Test debut. His performances in the white jersey of the Saxons have demonstrated his readiness to step up to the international stage, showcasing not just his finishing prowess but also his defensive work rate and aerial skills. With the 2025 Six Nations on the horizon, Steve Borthwick will be keeping a close eye on the Bristol flyer. If Ibitoye continues to deliver match-winning performances like this, it won't be long before he's lighting up Twickenham and proving he can excel at the highest level.

Bristol Bears Director of Rugby Pat Lam wants to see Ibitoye included with England before too long; "A special mention for him (Gabriel Ibitoye), because, you know, when I watched (Autumn) internationals and obviously, after the England games are the talk is about Mark Tele'a, (Joseph) Suaali'i these guys can create something out of nothing.” Lam said at the Stoop after the match.

“What's frustrating whilst hearing it, is that England has a guy who could create stuff out of nothing. But people tend to look at (Tele'a and Suaali'i). He's a good defender people, He can do all of that, but let's start looking at what people can create. And, you know, you imagine him, what he could create on attack for for the guys around him. He's just got it all. All he can do is keep doing that for us and keep knocking at the door (for England).”

2. Brett Connon (Newcastle Falcons)

Newcastle Falcons fly-half Brett Connon delivered a masterful performance in their stunning victory over Saracens, showcasing composure and precision in one of the biggest upsets of the season, albeit against a Sarries side without their Test match talents. Connon was the linchpin of the Falcons' attacking structure, steering the team with tactical nous and a calm head under pressure. His ability to manage the game effectively against a side as formidable as Saracens was a testament to his growth as a playmaker.

Crucially, Connon’s performance from the tee proved decisive, as he landed several vital kicks to keep the scoreboard ticking over. His accuracy under pressure, particularly in the second half, ensured that Newcastle capitalized on their opportunities and maintained their lead in a tense contest. With seven points to his name, including clutch penalties and conversions, Connon provided the backbone for Newcastle’s offensive efforts.

Whilst it would be far-fetched to suggest Connon will be surpassing Marcus Smith and George Ford to the England 10 shirt, this week’s injury to Fin Smith acted as a reminder that the England halfbacks only star in the best laid plans. The likes of Smith and Ford are as mortal as the rest of the England players, and should they sustain an untimley injury, Connon would be a solid contender to bolster the wider training squad throughout the 2025 Six Nations.

3. Jack Kenningham (Harlequins)

In a tough night for Harlequins, as they suffered a heavy defeat to Bristol Bears, Jack Kenningham emerged as a rare bright spark in an otherwise forgettable performance. Despite the lopsided 48-24 scoreline, Kenningham was relentless, showcasing his trademark intensity and work ethic across the pitch. At the breakdown, he was a force to be reckoned with, disrupting Bristol's momentum by winning key turnovers and slowing their ruck speed.

His tackling was ferocious and uncompromising, consistently halting Bristol's powerful runners in their tracks. Even as the game slipped away, Kenningham’s commitment never wavered, and he played with a determination that stood in stark contrast to the struggles of his team.While much of the pre- and post-match narrative revolved around Joe Marler's retirement, it was Kenningham who deserved the spotlight.

The young back-rower put in a performance that demanded attention, outshining his more experienced teammates and showing he has the skillset to thrive at the highest level. His all-around game—physicality, intelligence, and athleticism—makes him a compelling candidate for an England debut in the near future. With Steve Borthwick likely to freshen up his squad for the 2025 Six Nations, Kenningham’s name should be in the mix. If he continues to deliver performances like this, he could soon find himself in a white jersey, ready to make an impact on the international stage.

4. Cadan Murley (Harlequins)

In a disappointing evening for Harlequins, Cadan Murley provided a rare moment of brilliance, reminding everyone why he's firmly on England's radar. Despite his side's heavy defeat to Bristol Bears, Murley's individual performance stood out, highlighted by a sensational end-to-end intercept try. Midway through the first half, as Bristol threatened to extend their lead, Murley read the play perfectly, picking off a loose pass and sprinting the length of the field to score under the posts.

It was a display of his incredible anticipation, pace, and finishing ability—qualities that have made him one of the Premiership's most potent attacking threats. Even in a match where Quins struggled to gain a foothold, Murley consistently looked dangerous with ball in hand, making crucial yards and keeping Bristol’s defense on high alert.

Murley's recent performances have firmly cemented his status as a player on the brink of an England Test debut. Fresh off a starring role against Australia A, where he crossed the whitewash twice, Murley has shown he can deliver on the big stage. His ability to combine raw speed with sharp game intelligence makes him a perfect fit for Steve Borthwick's evolving England setup.

With the 2025 Six Nations fast approaching, Murley is pushing hard for selection, and it's hard to ignore his case. If he continues to produce moments of brilliance like Friday's intercept try, it won't be long before he's making an impact in the international arena.

5. Guy Pepper (Bath Rugby)

Bath’s Guy Pepper delivered a Player of the Match performance against Exeter Chiefs, spearheading his side to a gritty 19-15 victory. The dynamic back-rower showcased exceptional work rate, making 17 tackles and carrying the ball for a remarkable 68 meters from 12 carries. His first-half try set the tone for Bath’s aggressive start, while his relentless defensive efforts stifled Exeter’s typically potent attack. Whether charging through defensive lines or tidying up loose balls, Pepper’s presence was felt across the field.

Having recently impressed in England’s match against Australia A, Pepper is firmly on the radar for a Test debut. His ability to consistently deliver high-impact performances makes him a valuable asset for Bath and a future contender in the national setup as England gears up for the 2025 Six Nations. England fans were clambering to see a representative of the blue, black and whites battle in the back row this past Autumn Nations, with Ted Hill twice yo-yoed into the training camp.

Guy Pepper's meteoric rise in the Premiership continues to impress, and his performance against Exeter is just the latest example of his burgeoning potential. The 21-year-old has made an immediate impact since joining Bath from Newcastle Falcons for the 2024/25 season, already becoming a central figure in their forward pack, despite concerns of a heavy positional pecking order. Pepper continues to start in the back row ahead of Alfie Barbeary, and it was another tough week for Barbeary, who sustained a head injury.

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