Pollock and Caluori Target England Starts After Fiji Rout

Fiji Victory Highlights Ambition

England wrapped up a dominant 73‑8 win over Fiji with two promising youngsters flashing on the scoresheet. Henry Pollock, 21, grabbed a hat‑trick after entering the game as a 48th‑minute replacement, while 19‑year‑old debutant Noah Caluori set up a try for Henry Slade before herself crossing for a try. Caluori’s leap showcased his prodigious vertical ability, drawing comparisons to past aerial specialists.

The victory also served as a platform for both players to stake a claim for regular starting roles. Pollock’s celebratory pose mimicked that of football star Jude Bellinger, whereas Caluori’s dive was a textbook example of power and precision. England’s coaching staff looked on with encouragement, aware of the depth now present across the squad.

Pollock’s Hunger for a Starting Shirt

Pollock admitted that securing the number‑eight berth is a major focus for him at the moment. He revealed that coach Steve Borthwick urged him simply to “go out there and be myself” ahead of the Fiji fixture. In his 12 Test appearances, Pollock has started just once, but a strong finish to the season with Northampton and six international tries have sparked talk of a possible start against Argentina.

He described England’s back‑row depth as “crazy good,” noting the competition from Ollie Chessum, Tom Curry, Guy Pepper and Ben Earl. Despite the talent pool, Pollock remains focused on his own performances, believing that consistency will open doors. “I’m just trying to focus on myself and my work on the field,” he added, hoping results will follow.

Caluori’s Billing as England’s Best Wing

Caluori, who has set his sights on becoming England’s best-ever wing, finished joint top for try‑scoring in the Premiership this season. In a candid interview with Rugby Union Weekly, the Saracens player stressed his relentless drive. “I’m still hungry for more,” he said. “The next step is to start regular games and keep improving every day in training.”

He also compared his diving technique to Chris Ashton’s iconic swan dive. “I think his actual technique’s a bit better – maybe I jump a bit further,” Caluori observed. The praise highlights his ambition to become a frontline option. With his age (19) and recent form, Caluori believes he can push ahead of established wings in the pecking order.

Battle for Back‑Row and Wing Positions

The competition for starting roles stretches beyond Pollock and Caluori. In the back row, England’s depth includes Ollie Chessum, Tom Curry, Guy Pepper and Ben Earl, each fighting for limited spots. At the wing, the current starters against Fiji were Immanuel Feyi‑Waboso and Tommy Freeman, with Cadan Murley, Tom Roebuck, Henry Arundell and Adam Radwan also in contention.

• Pollack’s six Test tries already place him among the top try‑scorers for the country.
• Caluori’s Premiership joint‑top try tally adds further weight to his case for a permanent starting berth.

Looking Ahead to Argentina

England will close out the summer series against Argentina on Saturday at Estadio Unico Madre de Ciudades. Historically, England have won 15 of their 16 encounters with the Pumas, though Argentina have secured victories in both matches played on this ground. The upcoming fixture promises to be a stern test as the Red Roses aim to continue their dominance.

Both Pollock and Caluori will look to build on their Fiji displays, hoping to impress in a clash that could cement their starting futures. With depth and ambition high across the squad, England enters the match with confidence and a clear focus on securing the essential positions for the remaining games.