Pollock and Caluori Aim for Starting Spots After Fiji Victory

New Delhi, India Jul 13, 2026 ALN: England's young stars Henry Pollock and Noah Caluori are targeting starting for their country after scoring tries in Saturday's 73-8 thrashing of Fiji.

Pollock, 21, claimed a hat-trick after being introduced as a 48th-minute replacement at Hill Dickinson Stadium, while 19-year-old Caluori, making his debut off the bench, set up a score for Henry Slade before diving over himself. The match against Fiji was a showcase of England's rising talent, highlighting the depth and potential within the squad as they prepare for upcoming challenges.

"A big thing for me at the minute is wanting to get that starting shirt," said Pollock, who has started only once in 12 Test appearances for England. The competition for places in the England squad is fierce, and Pollock's ambition to secure a starting position is indicative of the drive and determination that many young players possess as they seek to make their mark on the international stage.

"Steve [Borthwick] said to me before the Fiji game to just go out there and be myself. I hope I did that and hope he saw enough in me." Pollock's reflection on his coach's advice underscores the importance of confidence and self-expression in high-stakes environments such as international . It is critical for players to not only perform but to do so in a manner that reflects their individual style and strengths.

Pollock acknowledged that England's strength in depth is "crazy good" with Ollie Chessum, Tom Curry, Guy Pepper, and Ben Earl also vying for position in the back row. This depth is a double-edged sword; while it raises the overall standard of the team, it also means that young players like Pollock must consistently perform at a high level to earn their place in the starting lineup.

However, a strong end to the season with club side Northampton, combined with six Test tries in his short international career, have prompted calls for Pollock to be given a run from the start. His performance in club has been impressive, and many fans and analysts are starting to advocate for his inclusion in the first team based on his recent form.

"I'm just trying to focus on myself and focus on my performances. Hopefully on the back of that I'll get results," added Pollock. This mindset of focusing on personal performance rather than external pressures is vital for athletes, particularly in a highly competitive environment where the spotlight is often on them.

Saracens' Caluori, who finished joint top of the Prem try-scoring standings this season, will also have to see off some substantial rivals if he is to secure a long-term starting spot. His achievements in the domestic league have placed him on the radar of selectors, but he understands that success at the club level does not automatically translate to international selection.

Immanuel Feyi-Waboso and Tommy Freeman were the two starting wings against Fiji, with the likes of Cadan Murley, Tom Roebuck, Henry Arundell, and Adam Radwan also contending. The competition for wing positions is particularly intense, as each player brings unique skills and attributes to the team. The ability to perform under pressure and contribute to the team's overall strategy will be crucial in determining who secures a place in the starting lineup.

But Caluori, who has set his sights publicly on being England's best-ever wing, is keen to push on up the pecking order. His ambition reflects a broader trend among young athletes who are increasingly vocal about their aspirations and goals. This can serve to inspire others and create a culture of high expectations within the team.

"I'm still hungry for more," he told Weekly. "I always want to push. The next thing after this is to start. I'm always trying to get better every day in training." This relentless pursuit of improvement is a hallmark of successful athletes, and Caluori's determination to refine his skills will be essential as he navigates the challenges of international .

"I'm not a complacent person so I'm always trying to be more hungry and achieve more," he added. This mindset not only drives individual performance but also contributes to a competitive team environment where players continually push each other to excel.

Caluori and Pollock celebrated their scores against Fiji in style at the weekend. Pollock marked his final try by copying England football star Jude Bellingham's familiar pose, with his arms outstretched in celebration. This moment of joy not only showcased Pollock's personality but also illustrated the crossover of s culture, where celebrations and gestures can transcend different athletic disciplines.

Caluori meanwhile soared over the whitewash with a dive that showcased his prodigious vertical leap. His athleticism is a key asset for a winger, and such displays of physical prowess can be decisive in high-pressure situations during matches.

Asked to compare his version to Chris Ashton's signature swan dive, Caluori reckoned he and the former England wing shared the spoils stylistically. "I think his actual technique's a bit better - maybe I jump a bit further," Caluori added. This light-hearted comparison highlights the camaraderie among players, even those from different generations, and reflects the respect that younger athletes have for their predecessors in the .

Looking ahead, England will take on Argentina in their final match of the summer on Saturday. They have beaten the Pumas in 15 of their 16 meetings, but Argentina have won both the only two matches they have played at the Estadio Unico Madre de Ciudades, beating Scotland and South Africa. This upcoming match presents a significant challenge for England, as they will need to maintain their momentum and capitalize on the confidence gained from their recent victory over Fiji. The historical context of their encounters with Argentina adds an extra layer of intrigue, as the Pumas will be eager to turn the tide against a team that has dominated their previous matchups.

In conclusion, both Pollock and Caluori are emblematic of a new generation of English players who are eager to make their mark on the international stage. Their performances against Fiji not only showcased their individual talents but also highlighted the depth of the England squad as they prepare for future competitions. With the upcoming match against Argentina on the horizon, the pressure will be on these young stars to deliver once again and solidify their positions within the team as they aim for long-term success in international .