Zach Mercer sets international rugby return date but it's not with England

Spurned England No.8 Zach Mercer has confirmed his international rugby comeback but it won't be for England.

The Barbarians have confirmed that Mercer will play in the Killik Cup against Fiji at Twickenham Stadium on June 22.

Mercer (26) joins England’s most-capped player Ben Youngs among those selected to represent the Barbarians in the fixture, which will be the second time he's played for the famous invitational team. He also has the distinction of having played against the Barbarians for England back in 2018.

Mercer was left out of Steve Borthwick's recent Six Nations squad and has made no bones about the fact that he feels he hasn't had a fair crack of the whip from the England boss.

The Baabaas - under the guidance of coach Robbie Deans - will face the Flying Fijians with the Killik Cup at stake. The event also features a match between South Africa and Wales starting at 2:00 pm as part of a doubleheader.

“I’m absolutely delighted to be involved with the Barbarians again this summer,” said Mercer. “I loved the opportunity to represent the BaaBaas in November 2022 against the All Blacks XV; it was incredibly special to pull on that jersey for the first time and we were on the right end of the result as well.

“Moments and memories like that are the reason you play rugby, so it’s really exciting for me to play again this summer in what should be a brilliant match against Fiji.

“I think it will be two very similar outfits going head-to-head, two teams that want to play fast, exciting rugby.

“The Fijians were one of the best teams to watch at the recent Rugby World Cup, certainly the most-improved team there, and they’re going to want to come to Twickenham and put on a show once again.

“It’s going to be a great battle between the BaaBaas and Fiji on the day, so I’d definitely encourage rugby fans to get down there on June 22 to watch the games. With South Africa vs Wales on ahead of us as well, it should be an unmissable afternoon of rugby.”

Mercer's professional journey began at Bath Rugby leading to a nomination for World Rugby Junior Player of the Year in 2017 after captaining England’s U20 to a Six Nations Grand Slam and a final in the World Rugby U20 Championship.

His tenure in France with Montpellier Hérault brought him the Top 14 title and the league’s Player of the Year award in 2022. Returning to England Mercer joined Gloucester Rugby in 2023 showcasing remarkable performances despite a two-month hiatus due to an ankle injury.

Mercer added: “Everyone remembers what happens in the Barbarians’ matches, but the week beforehand is just as special as well. It’s all about getting to know each other as a group of players, creating bonds with different individuals who you haven’t played with before."

Mercer played for the Barbarians in 2022 and is looking forward to another memorable experience at Twickenham.

“I’m really looking forward to getting back to Twickenham again – I’ve played there a few times now, but the stadium still has the same aura for me and every time you get to run out there is a privilege.

“Last time with the BaaBaas was at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, this time obviously it’s Twickenham, and being involved at venues of that calibre just goes to show what big occasions these matches are.

“BaaBaas matches are great learning opportunities as well. You’re training with some of the best players in the world, and all the coaches are world class. I had the pleasure of working with Scott Robertson and Ronan O’Gara last time – two of the very best in the business – and to work with Robbie Deans on this one is amazing, so I am really excited for that opportunity.”

Each ticket will cover entry for both South Africa vs Wales (K.O. 2pm) and Barbarians vs Fiji (K.O. 5.15pm) on Saturday 22 June, starting from just £55* for Adults and £28* for Under-16s. For a 10% discount on groups of 10 or more, please visit www.eticketing.co.uk/rfu/events.