Sam Burgess is unlikely to feature in England’s Six Nations rugby campaign, with coach Stuart Lancaster claiming it would be a “big, big step” for the former NRL star.
Burgess was named in England’s second-string Saxons squad on Wednesday and is expected to start at inside centre against the Irish Wolfhounds in Cork on January 30.
The announcement of Burgess’ path to a World Cup berth was made the same day Lancaster named his 34-man training squad for the Six Nations opener away to Wales on February 6.
“I think it would be a big, big step for Sam Burgess to make a contribution during the Six Nations, if I’m being honest,” said Lancaster.
“The reality is that the selection for the World Cup squad will come down to club form and how players go in the training camp.”
The 26-year-old former South Sydney star has made only seven first-team appearances for Bath since his high-profile switch from the Rabbitohs.
“I am really excited. It’s a great opportunity to get out and see what I can do within the English set-up,” Burgess told Associated Press.
Burgess spent his early weeks in Bath recovering from a facial injury suffered during the NRL grand final before making his debut off the bench against Harlequins in late November.
That was followed by three starts, including a try-scoring display in the English Premiership victory over Wasps earlier this month.
“It’s great to get a first taste of international rugby,” said Burgess.
“It’s a long way until the World Cup. I’ll take it step by step.
“Obviously, the injury delayed things, so it is good to get the opportunity.
“It has been a steep learning curve for me. You learn in training, but I think you do the most realistic learning on a game day.
“Certainly, as my minutes on the field have crept up, I think my performances have improved and I have got more game-awareness.
“There is still so much to learn and so many things to improve on, but I am really enjoying the transition. I am starting to understand the game a bit more.”
Former league star turned rugby international Andy Farrell believes the Saxons appearance will be tremendous for Burgess.
“It’s a steep learning curve and for him to be involved in the Saxons is great for him,” said the England backs coach.
“We’re pleased with his progress, certainly.”
Burgess is focussed on keeping things as simple as possible.
“I think the game is as complicated as you make it,” Burgess said.
“I try to look at it as simple as possible. If you do the simple things well, you put yourself in a good position.
“Understanding the breakdown of all the different areas of the game has been interesting. The skill level inside a game is unbelievable.
“It’s chaos out there on the field in terms of everything happening so fast. Every ruck is contestable, and it is a totally different mindset.”
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