Could England’s Joe Marchant be set to don the Welsh red soon? The rugby world is buzzing with the possibility! The former England centre, who racked up 28 caps and was last seen in action during the 2023 Rugby World Cup, could be eligible to switch allegiances to Wales come October. Marchant’s move to Stade Français post-World Cup made him ineligible for England, and World Rugby rules allow players to represent a new country after a three-year hiatus from international play.
Though he was born in Winchester, Marchant reportedly has Welsh roots, which could open the door for him to join Steve Tandy’s team. Nevertheless, the rugby star is also making waves back in England, having joined Sale Sharks with aspirations of a return to international glory under Steve Borthwick. “I’d love to get back in the mix for England,” Marchant revealed.
With England’s international fixtures resuming in November, will Borthwick call him back to the squad, or could we see Marchant embracing the dragon? The potential switch has sparked debates about eligibility rules, with some fans criticising them as a “mockery.”
Aside from rugby, Marchant recently celebrated his wedding to Hollie Shearer, daughter of football legend Alan Shearer. Their lavish ceremony in Winchester included Shearer Sr., who made a quick trip back from the States, just for the occasion. As the couple starts their next chapter, all eyes remain on whether Marchant will make a sensational switch across the border or remain a fixture in the English camp.
Stay tuned to see where Marchant’s international career will take him next!