Alex Corbisiero - World Cup Bolter

I think that is fair to say, that barring a disastrous showing in the 6 Nations or a serious injury, Andew Sheridan will be England's first choice loosehead at the World Cup later this year.

Behind him, it would appear that Tim Payne is the second choice, although many, myself included, do not see him as being an international class player.

Since the 1st January, Alex Corbisiero has had a run in the London Irish number 1 shirt, and has looked the real deal in every game. His ball carrying and general play in the loose has never been in question, but eyebrows have been raised about his scrummaging ability in some quarters. Over the course of this month, he has packed down up against Dave Wilson (England's 2nd choice tighthead), Carlos Nieto (experienced Italian international), Adam Jones (British and Irish Lion) and John Hayes (British and Irish Lion).

Against Bath he demolished Wilson, held his own against Nieto, got the better of Jones, and against Hayes appeared to be very much on top, although the refereeing of the scrum was so poor it is a little bit difficult to judge.

He should take his place in the Saxons side this weekend, which gives him a great opportunity to show Martin Johnson exactly what he can do, and I genuinely believe that if he continues to the end of the season in his current form, then he has a real chance of making the World Cup squad.

Very interested to hear others views on him and his chances of earning a call up.

 

Well he played well at the weekend, one of our stand out players I thought.