#7. Darren Crompton

Darren Crompton’s call-up to the England squad in 2007 felt more like a reward for loyalty than genuine form. The Bristol prop had been a rock at club level, anchoring their scrum with brute strength. Unfortunately, by the time England finally came calling, his best days were behind him.

Mobility was never his strong suit, and international rugby exposed that weakness brutally. Crompton’s selection highlighted England’s lack of depth at the time rather than his readiness for the big stage.

#6. Ben Foden

Ben Foden had all the makings of a modern full-back—quick, confident, and dangerous on the counter. But despite earning 34 caps, his international career felt incomplete. His early insistence on playing scrum-half rather than embracing the full-back role delayed his progress, and when he finally got his chance, inconsistency crept in. Injuries didn’t help either.

Foden flashed moments of brilliance, particularly under Martin Johnson, but never quite established himself as England’s long-term solution in the backfield.

#5. Danny Cipriani

One of the most naturally gifted fly-halves England has ever produced, Danny Cipriani’s story is one of wasted potential. With flair, vision, and attacking instinct, he looked like the future when he burst onto the scene.

But disciplinary issues, off-field headlines, and clashes with coaches limited him to just 16 caps. Despite dazzling club performances, he never became the international star his talent promised. Cipriani’s England career remains one of the great “what ifs” of modern rugby.

#4. Shaun Perry

From welder to England international, Shaun Perry’s rise was inspirational—but his time in white was short-lived. After an impressive start with Bristol, he earned a surprise call-up, only to crumble under the pressure of the 2007 World Cup.

A nightmare showing against South Africa sealed his fate, and he never featured for England again. While his story captured fans’ hearts, his performances never justified the fairy tale. A reminder that grit alone doesn’t guarantee success at Test level.

LIST CONTINUES ON PAGE THREE

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