Joe Marchant Recalled to England Squad for Nations Championship 2026

Joe Marchant has been recalled to the England training squad for the conclusion of the Nations Championship in November, marking his first international involvement since the 2023 Rugby World Cup. The 30-year-old centre, now with Sale Sharks after two seasons at Stade Français in the Top 14, is one of 36 players named by head coach Steve Borthwick on Sunday.

Marchant's inclusion boosts Borthwick's midfield options alongside Henry Slade, Max Ojomoh, and Fraser Dingwall. The recall signals a potential international lifeline for a player who has been in strong form since returning to the Premiership.

Why Joe Marchant's Recall Matters

Marchant's return to the England fold is significant for several reasons. His experience at the highest level, including the 2023 World Cup, adds depth to a midfield that has sometimes lacked creativity and go-forward in recent seasons.

His time in the Top 14 with Stade Français exposed him to a different style of rugby, one that demands physicality and tactical awareness. That experience could prove valuable as England look to compete against the best teams in the Nations Championship.

Moreover, Marchant's ability to play both centre positions gives Borthwick flexibility in selection. With Benhard Janse van Rensburg sidelined by a concussion, Marchant's versatility is a timely asset.

Other Notable Inclusions and Returns

Gloucester's Will Joseph is another eye-catching inclusion. The 24-year-old, younger brother of former England player Jonathan Joseph, has been instrumental in Gloucester's strong start to the domestic season. He was previously called up by Eddie Jones for the 2022 tour to Australia, where he made one brief appearance off the bench.

Joseph's form has been a key factor in Gloucester's table-topping run, and his selection reflects Borthwick's willingness to reward Premiership performances. His inclusion adds youthful energy to the midfield mix.

Charlie Atkinson, also of Gloucester, is among three players called up to continue their injury rehabilitation, along with Manny Feyi-Waboso of Exeter and Bath's Guy Pepper. Their presence in the squad suggests they are close to full fitness and could feature in November.

At scrum-half, Jack van Poortvliet is included after helping Leicester defeat Northampton at Welford Road on Saturday. He joins the Saints pair of Alex Mitchell and Archie McParland, the 21-year-old who has impressed for Northampton.

Key Takeaways from the Squad Announcement

• Joe Marchant's recall ends a two-year international absence and adds experience to the midfield.
• Will Joseph's form for Gloucester has earned him a first squad call-up since 2022.
• Injury returns for Atkinson, Feyi-Waboso, and Pepper signal they are nearing full fitness.
• Scrum-half depth is strong with Van Poortvliet, Mitchell, and McParland all included.
• Benhard Janse van Rensburg's absence due to concussion opens the door for others.

England Squad Comparison: Centres and Scrum-Halves

What This Means for England's Nations Championship Campaign

The Nations Championship represents a new challenge for England, and Borthwick's squad selection reflects a blend of experience and form. Marchant's recall provides a proven option at centre, while Joseph's inclusion rewards his excellent club form.

The return of injured players like Atkinson and Feyi-Waboso could give England additional firepower. However, the absence of Janse van Rensburg due to concussion is a reminder of the physical toll of the modern game.

With a strong Premiership showing from several of these players, England fans will be hopeful that this squad can deliver in November. The midfield battle for starting spots will be particularly intriguing.

What to Watch Next

All eyes will be on how Marchant and Joseph perform in training and any warm-up matches. Their club form suggests they are ready, but international rugby is a step up.

The scrum-half battle between Van Poortvliet, Mitchell, and McParland will also be fascinating. Mitchell has been a regular starter, but Van Poortvliet's recent form for Leicester and McParland's emergence at Northampton add competition.

England's Nations Championship campaign will be a key indicator of their progress under Borthwick. With the Rugby World Cup on the horizon, every match matters.

For a deeper look at Marchant's journey and his aspirations, see this Joe Marchant interview on French lessons and England dreams. His story is one of resilience and ambition, and this recall is another chapter.

Meanwhile, the Premiership continues to serve as a proving ground for England hopefuls. As noted in our coverage of the England recall challenge for Lawes and Marchant, club performances are the primary currency for international selection. The background to this story is set out in England Rugby Central Contracts: Lawrence and Daly Omitted. A related thread runs through England Rugby Players Slam 'Brutal' Travel Demands in Nations.

The competition for places is fierce, and that can only benefit England. With players like Marchant and Joseph pushing for spots, Borthwick has healthy selection dilemmas. Earlier coverage in Nations Championship Travel Demands: England Players Speak Out shows how the argument developed. A closer look at the same subject appears in England Players Slam Brutal Travel in Nations Championship.

As the Nations Championship approaches, the focus will sharpen on who can translate club form into international success. Marchant's experience and Joseph's potential make this a squad worth watching. Anyone following the wider picture can start with England Ticket Sales Slump for Nations Championship Finals. The same theme surfaces in Nations Championship: Rugby’s Self-Inflicted Woes Continue, which takes a different angle.