When George Martin was ruled out of the Six Nations due to another injury setback, England’s rugby squad faced a major challenge.
The absence of Martin, known for his aggressive playing style, left a noticeable gap in the team’s forward pack.
With few players able to replicate his level of physicality, the national team is urgently searching for someone who can bring that same level of intensity to the game.
The Role of an Enforcer in Modern Rugby
Martin’s physical presence on the field was hard to ignore.
He played with power and aggression, often throwing himself into hard tackles and rucks. This style, although not glamorous, was essential for England.
Martin’s forceful approach was especially evident during the 2023 World Cup semi-final, where his tackle on South Africa’s Franco Mostert was a standout moment.
It wasn’t just a highlight of the match, but a perfect example of what Martin brought to the game—a willingness to take the fight to his opponents.
The term “enforcer” may seem outdated, and some might argue that the sport has evolved beyond such a role.
After all, rugby has become a cleaner game with fewer instances of violent play.
However, there’s still a place for physical players who can dominate the opposition and make them think twice before engaging in a physical battle.
Modern Enforcers in Rugby
Even in today’s game, there are players who embody the enforcer role.
Look at South Africa’s Eben Etzebeth or New Zealand’s Scott Barrett—both bring a level of intimidation that sets the tone for their teams.
Australia’s Will Skelton and France’s Emmanuel Meafou also stand out for their sheer size and physical presence, and Ireland’s Joe McCarthy brings aggression to the front row.
These players prove that while rugby’s rules may have changed, the need for physical enforcers hasn’t disappeared.
Could Junior Kpoku Be the Answer?
For England, one player who ticks all the boxes to fill George Martin’s shoes is Junior Kpoku.
The 19-year-old lock has already impressed with his physicality and presence on the field.
Having played for England U20s during their World Cup victory, Kpoku has already shown that he can go toe-to-toe with some of rugby’s toughest players, including Skelton and Meafou.
His fearlessness and desire to dominate could make him an ideal candidate to become England’s next enforcer.
However, Kpoku is currently based in France with Racing 92, which creates complications when it comes to national selection.
He’s not eligible for a senior call-up yet, which seems like a missed opportunity for England.
His development in the French Top 14 league shows he’s ready for the next level, but the RFU’s policy on players based overseas limits his options.
It’s a situation that seems unfair, given the clear benefit Kpoku could bring to England’s pack.
England Needs More Physicality in the Pack
With players like Kpoku unavailable, England’s forward pack is left lacking the intimidating presence that was once synonymous with the team.
England’s pack has always thrived on power and intensity, and it’s an essential part of their game strategy.
With a lack of specialist enforcers, England faces the challenge of finding someone who can bring that necessary aggression to the field.
England’s Playmaker Dilemma
While the search for a new enforcer continues, England also has decisions to make about their playmakers.
The debate around Marcus Smith, George Ford, and Finn Smith is heating up.
Kevin Sinfield recently suggested that Smith could potentially play as a third ball-player in the backline, sparking rumors that England may tinker with their playmaking structure.
Although there’s a lot of speculation, the truth is that England’s midfield is up for grabs, with players like Elliot Daly making a case for a starting spot due to his versatility.
A Big Send-Off for Ireland’s Rugby Legends
Meanwhile, in Ireland, three key players—Peter O’Mahony, Conor Murray, and Cian Healy—are preparing to retire after the Six Nations.
All three have had outstanding careers, and their contributions to Irish rugby are undeniable.
O’Mahony, in particular, has been a fierce leader for Munster and Ireland.
His no-nonsense style of play and leadership on the field have made him one of the most respected figures in the sport.
Their retirements mark the end of an era for Irish rugby, and their influence will be felt long after they leave the game.
Wales Making Strides Despite Changes
In Wales, the rugby scene has undergone a significant transformation.
After Warren Gatland stepped down as head coach, there was a sense of uncertainty.
However, the Under 20s have had a remarkable turnaround, defeating Ireland in Newport.
The senior team also showed renewed energy, nearly pulling off an upset against Ireland.
With Dewi Lake returning from injury and the Ospreys securing a stunning victory over Glasgow, Wales seems to be finding its feet once again.
This revival could be a promising sign for the future, especially as they prepare for their match against Scotland.
The Need for More Rugby in the North
Finally, there’s a growing call for England to expand its reach beyond London and the Home Counties.
Last week, Steve Borthwick’s squad spent a few days in York, but many fans feel that this isn’t enough.
With so many passionate rugby supporters living in the north of England, there’s a desire for the national team to play matches in cities like Newcastle, Leeds, or Manchester.
These locations would not only allow more fans to see their team in action but also strengthen the connection between England and its wider fanbase.
In the end, rugby is about more than just the players on the field—it’s about building connections with the fans who support the team year in and year out.
It’s time for England Rugby to embrace that connection and bring the game to a broader audience.