Joe Marchant has returned to the Premiership with Sale Sharks after three seasons playing for Stade Français in France, bringing with him a diverse skill set and renewed aspirations for his international career with England. The 30-year-old centre acknowledges he has yet to meet all expectations since his return but remains determined to make an impact on and off the field.
Marchant’s move back to England comes after a period of adjustment and growth abroad. His time in Paris not only honed his rugby abilities but also required him to overcome language barriers and cultural differences, enhancing his communication skills and on-field leadership. “A big one is my communication because obviously there was a language barrier there and you can’t be shy,” Marchant said. Integrating into the Top 14 competition demanded adaptability, with Marchant often deployed on the wing due to his aerial skills, though his defensive coordination has been particularly valued by Sale director of rugby Alex Sanderson and England head coach Steve Borthwick.
His experience abroad was preceded by a stint with the Blues in New Zealand in 2020, which exposed him to a faster style of rugby with more open space, contrasting with the physical intensity of French rugby. This blend of playing environments has broadened Marchant’s perspective and skill set, something he believes will serve him well domestically and internationally.
Marchant’s international prospects have been shaped by changes in England’s coaching staff. Under former head coach Eddie Jones, Marchant was informed in late 2022 that he was not part of the World Cup plans, a decision that influenced his move to France. However, Jones’s subsequent departure and the appointment of Steve Borthwick have altered the landscape. Borthwick values Marchant’s attributes, and the player himself has engaged in candid discussions regarding his role, leading to clear expectations and renewed motivation to re-enter the England squad. “From that, we just got pretty aligned where he felt like he knew what he wanted from me and how to get it,” Marchant explained.
Aside from rugby, Marchant embraced life in Paris, learning the language and immersing himself in the culture. His commitment to speaking French was appreciated by teammates and has reportedly become a lighthearted feature during training sessions back in England.
Despite the challenges of readjusting to the Premiership after time overseas, Marchant is eager to build on his 28 England caps and contribute to the national team. “I want to play for England,” he said. “I’m proud to have played for England and I don’t want it to be my last time at that World Cup, I want to play again.” With a combination of international experience and recent clarity about his role under Borthwick, Marchant appears poised to pursue these ambitions as he resumes his Premiership career with Sale Sharks.