England need to get Vunipola back - Sam
SAM Warburton believes England’s World Cup prospects will improve if Billy Vunipola is recalled in the belief that number eight demands a physical presence.
Vunipola was overlooked entirely by Steve Borthwick for the recent Six Nations amid reports that England’s head coach is not on speaking terms with the Saracen following a row that took place in Japan four years ago.
Alex Dombrandt was given Vunipola’s place in the back row but failed to impose himself and his appetite for grinding out hard yards was questioned in the wake of the record Twickenham defeat by France in round four.
Former Wales and Lions flanker Warburton believes the ability to outmuscle opponents is critical to the position as the clock ticks down to the global showpiece hosted by France this autumn.
“Being physically dominant in a collision sport is one of the single most important factors, especially with the way rugby is at the moment,” Asahi ambassador Warburton told the PA news agency.
“That has to be something your number eight prides himself on and Billy Vunipola adds that.
“I wouldn’t disregard Dombrandt because he’s done too much good stuff in a Harlequins shirt, but at Test level Billy Vunipola has shown more.
“Look at the best teams in the world and their number eights are key players who bring a big, physical presence: Duane Vermeulen, Ardie Savea, Gregory Alldritt and Caelan Doris.
“England need to find someone who can perform to the same levels and if they did that they’d have a far better chance of getting to a World Cup final.”