Chandler Cunningham-South is being tipped to inject some much-needed dynamism into England’s faltering Six Nations campaign. After proving his mettle in a recent club game, the towering Harlequins flanker is on the brink of a national recall, having showcased his readiness in front of England's team manager Richard Hill.
This past weekend, Cunningham-South was temporarily released from England's squad to shake off any lingering rust by playing for Harlequins. His performance was compelling; not only did he score a try, but his defensive prowess also prevented the Newcastle Red Bulls from crossing the line, contributing to a 35-14 victory. Although the game lacked high stakes, it was a crucial platform for him to regain his match sharpness.
Harlequins' coach Jason Gilmore didn't hold back his praise, stating, "I think he’s ready and I think he’s hungry." Gilmore highlighted the challenges Cunningham-South faced due to limited game time, "Chandler probably hasn’t played for a month so there was a little bit of rustiness to start with before he found his rhythm. It’s hard for those [England squad] boys who are training every week but not actually getting to play."
"But we’ve been really happy with Chandler. He’s been brilliant with us this week; his work behind the scenes probably the best I’ve seen it. Will he be ready? I’d always back him to be ready, particularly to play for England."
England's recent performances have been lackluster, with consecutive defeats at the hands of Scotland and Ireland, exposing a need for more vigour and tactical astuteness. Former captain Courtney Lawes has criticized the team's current configuration, suggesting a reshuffling of the back row to inject fresh energy and effectiveness.
The inclusion of Cunningham-South in the upcoming game against Italy in Rome seems timely. His physicality and knack for crucial plays were evident two summers ago against New Zealand, where he was a standout performer. With England needing to revamp their approach and intensity, Cunningham-South's return could not come at a more critical juncture.
Gilmore remains optimistic about his player's impact, "The last game we played against Leicester, his defence and his ball carrying was outstanding. It probably just gets overlooked a little bit when you’re not winning games." With his potential reintegration into the national squad, England hopes to turn their fortunes around in the ongoing championship.
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Chandler Cunningham-South is being tipped to inject some much-needed dynamism into England’s faltering Six Nations campaign. After proving his mettle in a recent club game, the towering Harlequins flanker is on the brink of a national recall, having showcased his readiness in front of England's team manager Richard Hill.
This past weekend, Cunningham-South was temporarily released from England's squad to shake off any lingering rust by playing for Harlequins. His performance was compelling; not only did he score a try, but his defensive prowess also prevented the Newcastle Red Bulls from crossing the line, contributing to a 35-14 victory. Although the game lacked high stakes, it was a crucial platform for him to regain his match sharpness.
Harlequins' coach Jason Gilmore didn't hold back his praise, stating, "I think he’s ready and I think he’s hungry." Gilmore highlighted the challenges Cunningham-South faced due to limited game time, "Chandler probably hasn’t played for a month so there was a little bit of rustiness to start with before he found his rhythm. It’s hard for those [England squad] boys who are training every week but not actually getting to play."
"But we’ve been really happy with Chandler. He’s been brilliant with us this week; his work behind the scenes probably the best I’ve seen it. Will he be ready? I’d always back him to be ready, particularly to play for England."
England's recent performances have been lackluster, with consecutive defeats at the hands of Scotland and Ireland, exposing a need for more vigour and tactical astuteness. Former captain Courtney Lawes has criticized the team's current configuration, suggesting a reshuffling of the back row to inject fresh energy and effectiveness.
The inclusion of Cunningham-South in the upcoming game against Italy in Rome seems timely. His physicality and knack for crucial plays were evident two summers ago against New Zealand, where he was a standout performer. With England needing to revamp their approach and intensity, Cunningham-South's return could not come at a more critical juncture.
Gilmore remains optimistic about his player's impact, "The last game we played against Leicester, his defence and his ball carrying was outstanding. It probably just gets overlooked a little bit when you’re not winning games." With his potential reintegration into the national squad, England hopes to turn their fortunes around in the ongoing championship.