The Quilter Nations Series begins this weekend, and with it comes a defining chapter in England’s journey toward the 2027 Rugby World Cup. As Steve Borthwick’s England prepare to face Australia at Twickenham’s Allianz Stadium, fans are asking the big question: could a new generation of young, explosive talents finally transform England into genuine world-beaters?
With a number of emerging stars lighting up the Premiership and impressing in training camps, England’s squad for this autumn series represents a bold blend of youth, power, and potential. Here are five X-factor players whose unique skills could shape England’s future.
Noah Caluori – The Airborne Assassin
When Noah Caluori scored five tries on his Premiership debut for Saracens against Sale Sharks, he announced himself as England’s next big thing. At just 19 years old, the 6ft 4in winger combines raw pace, aerial dominance, and remarkable athleticism, making him one of the most exciting prospects in English rugby.
Borthwick’s decision to select Caluori ahead of established wingers like Adam Radwan shows the high regard in which he’s held. His ability to leap and claim high balls under pressure could give England a tactical edge, especially against teams like New Zealand and Argentina, who rely heavily on contestable kicks.
Former England wing Ugo Monye praised Caluori’s impact:
“His raw athleticism is unreal. With the new laws removing escort protection, players like Caluori are redefining the aerial contest.”
If Caluori can adapt quickly to Test-level intensity, he might just become England’s breakout star of the autumn.
Henry Pollock – The Relentless All-Rounder
At 20 years old, Henry Pollock has already made waves for both Northampton Saints and the British and Irish Lions. Having graduated from the England Under-20 Six Nations earlier this year, Pollock now stands on the verge of becoming England’s long-term solution in the back row.
A natural ball-carrier with immense stamina, Pollock’s versatility allows him to play across all three back-row positions. With Tom Willis heading to France, there’s a vacancy at number eight — and Pollock looks ready to seize it.
His Champions Cup heroics against Leinster, where he dominated the breakdown and scored twice off the bench against Wales, underlined his world-class potential. England fans are eager to see if Pollock’s explosive power and tireless work rate can make him the next great English back-row forward.
Chandler Cunningham-South – The Powerhouse Forward
Chandler Cunningham-South, the 22-year-old Harlequins powerhouse, has become one of England’s most talked-about rising stars. Equally effective at blindside flanker, lock, or number eight, Cunningham-South offers Borthwick a rare blend of size, strength, and mobility.
Having featured in two Six Nations campaigns, he’s proven his defensive toughness and ability to dominate collisions. Former Wales captain Sam Warburton called him “a serious athlete” and “the real deal for England moving forward.”
Cunningham-South’s physical presence evokes memories of Courtney Lawes, and with England seeking to rebuild their forward pack after the 2023 Rugby World Cup, he could become the cornerstone of a new, fearsome generation.
A rumored move to Sale Sharks could give him more consistent game time, potentially helping him lock down a permanent spot in England’s starting XV.
Immanuel Feyi-Waboso – The Game-Breaking Wing
Dynamic, powerful, and fearless — Immanuel Feyi-Waboso has all the makings of a world-class finisher. The Exeter Chiefs winger burst onto the Test scene last year, scoring twice against New Zealand, and continues to excite fans with his blend of pace, footwork, and defensive strength.
After a difficult year recovering from shoulder surgery and suspension, Feyi-Waboso has bounced back with seven tries in the first five Premiership rounds, reaffirming his status as one of England’s deadliest attacking threats.
His ability to break games open single-handedly makes him a vital weapon in England’s backline. If he can stay fit, Feyi-Waboso could be England’s answer to Cheslin Kolbe — a player capable of producing moments of magic on the biggest stage.
Henry Arundell – The Comeback Star
Few players have generated as much excitement as Henry Arundell. The Bath winger, who first made headlines as a teenager with a viral solo try for London Irish, is now rebuilding his England career after a stint in the French Top 14 with Racing 92.
At the 2023 Rugby World Cup, Arundell scored five tries against Chile, showing glimpses of his electrifying finishing ability. Back in the Premiership, his form has been superb — four tries in five games — and his improved work under the high ball suggests a more complete player.
With his combination of lightning speed, footwork, and instinctive attacking flair, Arundell remains a potential match-winner capable of turning tight Tests in England’s favor.
The Road to the Rugby World Cup 2027
England’s autumn Tests against Australia, Fiji, New Zealand, and Argentina will provide a critical benchmark for this emerging generation. With Borthwick emphasizing skill development and attacking freedom, the inclusion of players like Caluori, Pollock, Cunningham-South, Feyi-Waboso, and Arundell signals a shift toward a faster, more fearless brand of rugby.
As the countdown to Rugby World Cup 2027 in Australia continues, these five X-factor players might just be the ones to transform England from contenders into true world champions.
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