Sanderson backs Jibulu to force England debut after wrecking-ball display stuns Saracens

Nathan Jibulu delivered a performance that Sale director of rugby Alex Sanderson believes could launch the 23-year-old hooker onto the international stage, as the Sharks claimed a 21-17 Gallagher Premiership victory over Saracens at StoneX Stadium. England head coach Steve Borthwick was in attendance as Jibulu was named man of the match, adding urgency to the selection conversation ahead of next year’s Rugby World Cup.

Sanderson was effusive in his praise, describing Jibulu as a “wrecking ball” who “caused havoc around the field” while also nailing his line-out work. “Any time you watch Nathan play he makes an impact,” Sanderson said. “He was immensely strong. You can get away with being fast and skilful in the Prem, but it’s another level in terms of the power required at international level — and he’s got that ability.”

The timing of the display could hardly have been more significant. England captain Jamie George was absent from the Saracens squad with a pubic bone problem, while his deputy Theo Dan limped off injured during the match. Sale’s Luke Cowan-Dickie was rested to manage his knees, leaving the hooker position conspicuously open. “There’s been a lot of rotation between Cowan-Dickie and George, and with England wanting to build into a World Cup, this could be it for him,” Sanderson added.

The victory itself was a testament to Sale’s resilience. The visitors were reduced to 13 men for three minutes of the first half after Jacques Vermeulen received a 20-minute red card for a high tackle and Alex Lozowski was simultaneously sin-binned for the same offence. Despite the numerical disadvantage, Sale dominated the second half to secure a win at a ground where they had lost 13 of their previous 15 visits.

“Resilience breeds trust and fosters belief,” Sanderson said. “They now have the knowledge they can get through moments like that.”

For Saracens, the result was a sharp reversal after an impressive opening-weekend win over Leicester Tigers. Head coach Joe Shaw acknowledged his side failed to find their rhythm. “We couldn’t really get into our flow, that’s the truth of it,” he said. “Credit to Sale — they came and fronted up. They had adversity but they kept coming. We have to take it on the chin and move on.”