George Ford, Sale Sharks' fly-half, is poised to lead England at the 2027 Rugby World Cup, according to his club coach Alex Sanderson, following a standout performance that has put past disappointments firmly behind him. Despite being overlooked for the British and Irish Lions tour, Ford's recent form, both internationally and at club level, suggests he's ready to shed the 'bridesmaid' label from previous World Cup campaigns.
Ford's international experience was evident as he reached his 100th cap for England during the summer tour, and he continued to impress in Sale's opening match of the Gallagher Premiership season, where they secured a 27-10 victory over Gloucester. Sanderson was effusive in his praise post-match, highlighting Ford's resilience and leadership. "George is loving his rugby – he’s loving getting out there and playing. When you’re like that, it shines through in terms of your energy and performances," Sanderson remarked.
"There wasn’t any part of him that was bitter about missing out on Lions selection."
Sanderson believes Ford has the quality and the mental fortitude to finally lead England to World Cup glory. "He’s been to one final and has got the team to the latter stages twice only to be the bridesmaid. He’s been dropped from that – twice – so there’s a feeling that if he stays on form then he’s going to be the guy who gets them into a final and is able to lift a World Cup," Sanderson added.
Competition for places is fierce, with players like Fin Smith pushing hard, but Ford's combination of experience and tactical acumen makes him a front-runner for England's squad. Sanderson was clear: "You can’t look much past his experience and decision-making. He’s a sure bet, he should be in that squad."
The Ford family's influence at Sale has also grown, with George's elder brother Joe joining the coaching staff. However, Sanderson was quick to clarify that Joe's appointment was based on merit, not nepotism. "They go home and pour over clips, but Joe is a brilliant coach in his own right and he’s not here because of George. He’s here because of his own skillset and the relationship I’ve had with him." Yet, the familial connection does enhance their teamwork, enriching George's performance through deeper insights and support.
With such backing and his current form, Ford is not just playing for records but for redemption and a chance to lift the ultimate prize in rugby.
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George Ford, Sale Sharks' fly-half, is poised to lead England at the 2027 Rugby World Cup, according to his club coach Alex Sanderson, following a standout performance that has put past disappointments firmly behind him. Despite being overlooked for the British and Irish Lions tour, Ford's recent form, both internationally and at club level, suggests he's ready to shed the 'bridesmaid' label from previous World Cup campaigns.
Ford's international experience was evident as he reached his 100th cap for England during the summer tour, and he continued to impress in Sale's opening match of the Gallagher Premiership season, where they secured a 27-10 victory over Gloucester. Sanderson was effusive in his praise post-match, highlighting Ford's resilience and leadership. "George is loving his rugby – he’s loving getting out there and playing. When you’re like that, it shines through in terms of your energy and performances," Sanderson remarked.
"There wasn’t any part of him that was bitter about missing out on Lions selection."
Sanderson believes Ford has the quality and the mental fortitude to finally lead England to World Cup glory. "He’s been to one final and has got the team to the latter stages twice only to be the bridesmaid. He’s been dropped from that – twice – so there’s a feeling that if he stays on form then he’s going to be the guy who gets them into a final and is able to lift a World Cup," Sanderson added.
Competition for places is fierce, with players like Fin Smith pushing hard, but Ford's combination of experience and tactical acumen makes him a front-runner for England's squad. Sanderson was clear: "You can’t look much past his experience and decision-making. He’s a sure bet, he should be in that squad."
The Ford family's influence at Sale has also grown, with George's elder brother Joe joining the coaching staff. However, Sanderson was quick to clarify that Joe's appointment was based on merit, not nepotism. "They go home and pour over clips, but Joe is a brilliant coach in his own right and he’s not here because of George. He’s here because of his own skillset and the relationship I’ve had with him." Yet, the familial connection does enhance their teamwork, enriching George's performance through deeper insights and support.
With such backing and his current form, Ford is not just playing for records but for redemption and a chance to lift the ultimate prize in rugby.