New Zealand-born flanker and former jiu jitsu champion Ethan Roots has been named in England's Six Nations squad for the first time.
Roots, 26, grew up in Auckland and had dreams of making the UFC before he found rugby was his calling.
He moved to the UK in 2021 after making appearances for the Crusaders and Māori All Blacks and has shone for the Exeter Chiefs this season. He qualifies for England through his father.
He was one of seven uncapped players in the squad, alongside wingers Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, Oscar Beard and Tom Roebuck, back-row forward Chandler Cunningham-South, centre Fraser Dingwall and flyhalf Fin Smith — while prop Kyle Sinckler and No. 8 Billy Vunipola have been omitted.
Jamie George was named as England's captain, with the hooker taking the role following Owen Farrell’s decision to sit out the tournament to prioritise his and his family’s mental wellbeing.
George has played 85 games for England and has previously captained Saracens, his club team in England, and the British & Irish Lions.
“I don’t underestimate the challenge ahead," said George, who was asked last week by England coach Steve Borthwick if he wanted the role. "Owen is a fantastic motivator and tactician, and we will undoubtedly miss his leadership.
“But I have got brilliant people around me, many of whom have won major tournaments, and utilising the great experience we have within the group is going to be crucial.”
Borthwick has undertaken a significant revamp of the 36-man squad, with only 17 remaining from the 34 players used at last year's Rugby World Cup — where England finished in third place.
Sinckler and Vunipola have been stalwarts of the team for the previous two World Cup cycles.
“Building on the foundations of what we achieved at the Rugby World Cup, I have selected a squad that provides strong continuity and experience, whilst at the same time providing an opportunity to develop the talent of a number of new and less-experienced players,” Borthwick said.
England opens its Six Nations campaign against Italy in Rome on February 3.
- additional reporting Associated Press
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