Fraser Dingwall says his omission from England's past two squads is "disappointing", but does not make a return

Northampton Saints centre Fraser Dingwall has admitted that missing out on the last two England squads under head coach Steve Borthwick has been a tough pill to swallow, yet the talented midfielder remains fiercely determined to force his way back into international contention. Despite making his long-awaited Six Nations debut against Italy earlier this year where he marked the occasion with a crucial try, the 25-year-old was overlooked for the subsequent summer tour to Japan and New Zealand, as well as the recent Autumn Nations Series fixtures at Allianz Stadium. Dingwall's stellar club form in the Gallagher Premiership, where he consistently anchors the Saints midfield with his exceptional defensive reads and distribution, continues to keep him firmly on the national radar.

The competition for midfield berths within the England setup is fiercely contested, with Borthwick currently favoring players like Ollie Lawrence and Henry Slade, alongside versatile options such as Manu Tuilagi before his departure to France. Dingwall, who was named Northampton club captain ahead of their historic Premiership-winning 2023-24 campaign, understands that leadership and consistency at club level are his best avenues to regain favor. During that triumphant domestic season, the former England Under-20 captain featured in 20 league matches, orchestrating Northampton's attack with a masterclass in tactical kicking andrugby IQ, proving time and again that he possesses the intellectual rigor demanded at the highest tier of the sport.

Looking ahead, Dingwall is channeling his frustration into fuel for Northampton's current European Champions Cup and Premiership title defenses, knowing that high-stakes club performances are the ultimate currency for Test selection. With the grueling domestic calendar offering plenty of opportunities to impress watching England scouts, the resilient centre is refusing to let temporary setbacks derail his international ambitions. As the Red Roses prepare for the demanding challenges of the upcoming Six Nations championship, Dingwall stands ready to answer the call should injuries strike or tactical shifts demand his precise, industrious brand of midfield play.