Here’s a bold statement: England’s rugby future might just hinge on a 22-year-old powerhouse named Greg Fisilau. But here’s where it gets controversial—while some see him as the missing piece in England’s No 8 puzzle, others argue he’s yet to prove himself on the international stage. So, why is Fisilau suddenly in the spotlight? Let’s dive in.
Exeter Chiefs’ standout No 8, Greg Fisilau, has earned a coveted invitation to England’s pre-Six Nations alignment camp at Pennyhill Park. This isn’t just a pat on the back—it’s a clear signal that his recent performances have caught the eye of head coach Steve Borthwick. Fisilau’s inclusion comes on the heels of Exeter’s impressive run, where they’ve climbed to third in the Premiership table, with victories over Saracens and Leicester, and a near-miraculous comeback against Bath. His form has been so impressive that he’s been shortlisted for the Premiership Player of the Month award—a testament to his growing influence on the pitch.
And this is the part most people miss: While England’s back row is stacked with talent, the No 8 position is surprisingly thin. Ben Earl and Chandler Cunningham-South have filled the role recently, but neither is a natural fit. Earl is a converted flanker, and Cunningham-South, though versatile, hasn’t consistently dominated at the highest level. This leaves a gap that Fisilau, a bona fide No 8, could fill. At 6ft 2in and nearly 110kgs, he’s not the largest, but his explosiveness, dynamism, and rugby IQ make him a standout. His ability to pick angles and offload under pressure is exactly what England might need to add a new dimension to their game.
But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Fisilau’s journey to this point has been steady, not meteoric. He’s been on England’s radar for years, featuring for the U20s and England A, and even trained with the senior squad ahead of the 2024 summer tour to New Zealand. Yet, he’s still waiting for his full international debut. Here’s the controversial question: Is Fisilau’s presence at Pennyhill Park a mere formality, or is he genuinely in contention for a Six Nations spot? With England’s depth in the back row—think Tom Curry, Sam Underhill, and the emerging Guy Pepper—Fisilau faces stiff competition. However, Borthwick’s decision to omit Saracens’ No 8 Tom Willis from selection opens the door slightly wider.
The timing couldn’t be more intriguing. England kick off their Six Nations campaign against Wales on February 7, and Borthwick is under pressure to hit the ground running. The alignment camp is his chance to mold a cohesive unit quickly, but will Fisilau be part of that final squad? While his inclusion isn’t guaranteed, his continued excellence for Exeter could force Borthwick’s hand. If he keeps delivering match-winning performances, ignoring him will become increasingly difficult.
Here’s a thought to ponder: Is Greg Fisilau the answer to England’s No 8 conundrum, or is he just the latest in a line of promising talents yet to fully realize their potential? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—do you think Fisilau deserves a shot in the Six Nations, or is it too soon? The debate is open, and the rugby world is watching.
