England star set to join Six Nations rivals following lengthy international exile
18/09/2024 21:48
Former Italy head coach Kieran Crowley has revealed he spoke to Saracens back Alex Lozowski ahead of the 2022 Six Nations about a potential switch of allegiance, but the player opted not to make the move.
The 29-year-old, who has five England caps with his last appearance in 2018, is eligible to represent Italy through his Italian grandparent.
While Lozowski turned down Italy in 2022, the team’s improved performances during the 2024 Six Nations may tempt him to reconsider. His versatility and quality would be a significant boost to Italy's ambitions.
Lozowski's sporting career could have taken a different direction, as he was part of Chelsea FC's academy until the age of 16 before deciding to focus on rugby. He later joined the Leeds Carnegie Academy after completing his A-levels, and earned a degree in Economics from Leeds University.
Following his time at Leeds, Lozowski joined Wasps, where he spent two seasons before moving to Saracens. He made an immediate impact at the north London club, scoring four tries in his first five Premiership matches.
A key part of Saracens' domestic and European triumphs, Lozowski earned his England call-up for the 2017 tour of Argentina, and made five international appearances.
After a loan spell with Montpellier, he returned to Saracens in 2021, making an impressive start to the season with a Player of the Match performance against Bristol.
"Role models" – Five inspiring Red Roses you need to follow on Instagram
Before the 2024 Women’s Six Nations kicks off, let’s spotlight five standout Red Roses players worth following on Instagram. From motivating moms to fitness enthusiasts, these stars are sure to inspire.
#1. HOLLY AITCHISON
Given Holly’s familial background with her father Ian being a former England U20 and Saxons player as well as Waterloo's director of rugby, it made perfect sense for her to pursue rugby.
Aitchison herself boasts an impressive resume, having represented England in various capacities, including age-grade levels, the HSBC World Sevens Series, and even at the Olympic Games for Team GB.
Joining Saracens in 2020 marked the beginning of her remarkable journey, highlighted by scoring a try during her England 15s debut in 2021. This momentum carried her to the starting lineup for the 2021 Rugby World Cup final and secured her a spot in Simon Middleton’s Six Nations squad in 2023.
Demonstrating her prowess, she played a pivotal role in the Red Roses’ victorious campaign at the inaugural WXV1 tournament in New Zealand. Now, Holly’s achievements continue to flourish as she recently earned a place in John Mitchell’s squad for the 2024 Guinness Women’s Six Nations.
CONTINUES ON PAGE TWO
The post England star set to join Six Nations rivals following lengthy international exile appeared first on Ruck.