Ethan Roots has shared his exhilarating experience of making his England debut as a blindside flanker, an achievement that resulted in him being named the man of the match in a thrilling 27-24 victory over Italy in the Guinness Six Nations. This noteworthy accomplishment holds particular significance for Roots, who has faced a challenging and unconventional journey into professional rugby.
During his formative years, Roots encountered a setback stemming from his smaller physique, which hindered his ability to make an impact in the sport. Consequently, he turned his focus to pursuits such as jiu-jitsu and kickboxing and even took part in an MMA fight, which ended in a draw. However, his association with his jiu-jitsu coach’s daughter led to his expulsion from the club.
Despite these obstacles, Roots managed to rediscover his passion for rugby and benefit from a growth spurt that bolstered his physical presence on the field. This resurgence led to contract offers from various teams, ultimately culminating in his decision to join the Crusaders in 2020, though his appearances were limited. Subsequently, he made his mark in the UK by showcasing his skills at Ospreys before securing a position with Exeter last year. His outstanding performance caught the attention of Steve Borthwick, who saw potential for Roots to fill the number six jersey for England, succeeding the esteemed Courtney Lawes.
Reflecting on his journey, Roots expressed gratitude for rediscovering his passion for rugby and seizing the professional opportunities that came his way. Despite encountering a rough patch in his career, he emerged from the ordeal with a renewed sense of purpose and enthusiasm. The 26-year-old athlete acknowledged the rapid pace at which his life had unfolded in the past several months, culminating in a triumphant victory at Stadio Olimpico and the prestigious accolade of man of the match.
Roots recounted the heartwarming surprise of being visited by his mother, Cara, following the game and eagerly anticipated her potential attendance at the upcoming match against Wales. He also expressed his excitement at the prospect of competing against his former Ospreys teammates and relished the opportunity to participate in his first Test at Twickenham.
His remarkable resilience and steadfast commitment to the sport have endeared Roots to fans and admirers as he continues to make strides in his rugby career. The upcoming fixture against Wales holds the promise of further accomplishments for this tenacious athlete, whose unwavering determination and perseverance have brought him to the pinnacle of his sporting endeavors.