Will Joseph shines with five-try performance in England’s rout of Japan

Will Joseph made a spectacular return to international rugby on Saturday, scoring five tries to lead England to a commanding 78-15 victory over Japan at Twickenham. The 24-year-old, who had not featured for his country since July 2022, dominated the match early on by recording four of his five tries within the first 25 minutes of play.

The performance was particularly significant given Joseph’s personal health challenges. Earlier this year, he lost the hearing in his left ear due to an autoimmune condition. Despite the permanent loss of hearing, Joseph has adapted his game, noting that a greater reliance on his vision may have actually improved his scanning ability on the pitch. His efforts on Saturday placed him in elite company, as he became only the second man to score five tries in an international match.

Japan coach Eddie Jones, who previously coached England and gave Joseph his first international cap, described the result as a difficult lesson for his side, which was hampered early by a red card to Harry Hockings. England head coach Steve Borthwick praised Joseph’s acceleration and footwork, suggesting the winger has firmly established himself as a contender for next year's World Cup squad.

His pace, acceleration and footwork is a real asset. We want to build a squad, not a team. Now there’s some people who really put their hand up with quality performances.

What to watch next: Joseph will look to maintain his momentum as he competes for a permanent spot in Borthwick’s evolving squad ahead of the upcoming World Cup cycle.