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Coach Stuart Lancaster has floated the possibility of Sam Burgess making his England rugby debut for the Saxons against the Irish Wolfhounds on January 30.
Burgess’ first taste of rugby union unfolded over 17 minutes as a second-half replacement in Bath’s comprehensive Premiership victory over Harlequins on Friday.
The 25-year-old former rugby league star carried with intent and cleared out a ruck in a promising, if unspectacular debut.
England are desperate to fill their problematic inside-centre position and Burgess will be a contender if he adapts quickly to the new code.
When asked if Burgess could make his Six Nations squad, Lancaster said: “That would be a big step, but who knows? We’ll wait and see. If he plays well, there’s a Saxons game in January.
“Sam is a player who will be of interest, without a doubt. It took about three Quins players to stop him.
“He’s a powerful man and it will be nice to see him get a few more games and put his hand up.”
Burgess will be involved in Bath’s Champions Cup clash with Montpellier on Friday and is likely to be joined in that squad by George Ford, who enjoyed a breakthrough November Test series for England.
Ford built on his strong full debut against Samoa with another composed display in Saturday’s (Sunday AEDT) 26-17 victory over the Wallabies, and only a collapse in form would prevent him starting ahead of Owen Farrell against Wales on February 6.
“I think George has done enough for a run in the team, but I’m sure Owen will have something to say about that in the next five or six weeks,” Lancaster said.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.