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Former England would-be Stooke to stay in France
By Ian Cameron
English lock Elliott Stooke is set to continue his rugby journey in the Top 14 by extending his time with Montpellier as a World Cup joker.
Although uncapped, Stooke participated in a wider England training camps in 2018 and 2019. The 28-year-old will become a free agent following the upcoming tournament.
In January, Stooke made the decision to join the ranks of the Top 14, following in the footsteps of other ex-Wasps players after the demise of the club, signing with Montpellier until the end of last season.
At that time, Montpellier held the title of reigning French champions. Stooke's move came after a short-term injury cover deal at Bristol.
He had sustained a fibula fracture playing for Wasps back in May during a match against Sale.
Stooke made his return to the pitch during the Barbarians' English club tour in November and subsequently joined Bristol as a short-term signing on December 2. During his time with Bristol, he featured in three matches, including an appearance in a European Challenge Cup game against Perpignan.
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Latest Comments
I think the best 15 we have is DMac. Jordan at 14.
Go to commentsIt certainly needs to be cherished. Despite Nick (and you) highlighting their usefulness for teams like Australia (and obviously those in France they find form with) I (mention it general in those articles) say that I fear the game is just not setup in Aus and NZ to appreciate nor maximise their strengths. The French game should continue to be the destination of the biggest and most gifted athletes but it might improve elsewhere too.
I just have an idea it needs a whole team focus to make work. I also have an idea what the opposite applies with players in general. I feel like French backs and halves can be very small and quick, were as here everyone is made to fit in a model physique. Louis was some 10 and 20 kg smaller that his opposition and we just do not have that time of player in our game anymore. I'm dying out for a fast wing to appear on the All Blacks radar.
But I, and my thoughts on body size in particular, could be part of the same indoctrination that goes on with player physiques by the establishment in my parts (country).
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