Jack Willis has opened up on his England future, admitting he may never feel fully satisfied with his international career—but insists he has no regrets over staying in France.
The Stade Toulousain back-rower, who has been in outstanding form in the Top 14, acknowledged there will always be a lingering sense of “what if” when it comes to England.
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“I think there’ll always be part of me that will look back thinking I had more in me from an international point of view,” he told For The Love Of Rugby.
Willis was involved with England during the 2023 Rugby World Cup, but admitted he never truly delivered his best on that stage.
“I don’t think I showed the best version of Jack Willis in an England shirt… I think I could have done better.”
Despite that, the 29-year-old made it clear he does not regret committing his future to Toulouse—fully aware it would likely end his England chances under current RFU selection rules.
“I didn’t choose to leave England, but I chose to stay… I love it here. I won’t regret that.”
Willis also revealed there has been no contact at all from England boss Steve Borthwick since his move abroad.
“No. Never had anything.”
As a competitor, however, the pull of Test rugby hasn’t disappeared.
“You want to be playing at the biggest stage and international rugby is the biggest stage… but yeah, there’s always a part of it that’s a bit tough.”
There has also been no approach from the British & Irish Lions, despite his standout form in France.
Speculation around a potential switch to Ireland—via his Irish heritage—was also addressed, but Willis suggested it’s not a path he’s seriously pursuing.
“My granddad’s fully Irish, but if it involves moving, then that puts me in the same situation… sometimes you’ve got to accept your reality.”
For now, Willis remains content with life in France, even if questions over his England career may never fully disappear.
“There’ll always be a bit more to give… but I don’t regret my decisions.”
OTHER ENGLAND STARS WHO CAN SWAP NATIONS:
Marcus Smith
Smith admitted that while it remains a dream to wear the England shirt, the idea of one day representing the Philippines alongside his brothers would be incredibly special.
“One day I’d love to help and be involved in Philippine rugby — my brother currently plays for the Philippines,” said Smith.
Mako Vunipola
Mako is long established as an England prop, but with Tongan heritage via his parents and no England appearances since the 2023 World Cup, he could be eligible to represent Tonga under World Rugby’s eligibility rules (three‑year stand‑down + heritage) should he choose to pursue that route.
Dan Kelly
A talented centre currently playing in Ireland, Kelly has one senior England cap but has since appeared for Ireland A, aligning him with Ireland under current eligibility pathways.
England’s restrictions on overseas‑based players limited his opportunities with the Red Rose, but a full switch to Ireland gives him the chance for consistent Test rugby and a starting role at the 2027 World Cup.
Billy Vunipola
Billy also qualifies for Tonga through family heritage. Despite a long England career, he hasn’t featured since playing in 2024 under the overseas‑based restrictions. Tonga has shown interest in bringing the powerful number 8 into their squad for 2027, and given the eligibility framework, he could make such a switch.
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