Joe Marchant is still getting used to life with his new team, Sale Sharks, after spending three years playing for Stade Français in Paris. The transition has involved adjusting to new teammates and even some communication challenges, like learning to say "Joe's" instead of "j'ai" (which means "I have" in French) to avoid confusion during training sessions. Marchant recently earned his latest cap for England during the third-place play-off win against Argentina at the 2023 Rugby World Cup. He was a key player in the tournament, starting in every match except the pool game against Chile, where he sat out due to a prior injury. After the World Cup, Marchant joined Stade Français and quickly moved into the competitive Top 14 league in France. He noted that the physicality of the league is intense, with players often facing opponents weighing at least 150 kilograms during line-outs. Now, Marchant is focusing on proving himself in the English Premiership with Sale before any potential return to the England squad. He has been having regular discussions with Sale’s head coach, Steve Borthwick, about the importance of performing well in the league to remain in the national team’s plans. Marchant is eager to play for England again and hopes it won’t be his last World Cup appearance. His decision to move to France was partly influenced by conversations with former England coach Eddie Jones, who had suggested Marchant might not be selected for the World Cup. However, after Jones left his role, Borthwick, now England’s head coach, supported Marchant’s move and spoke positively about his abilities and character. Known for his ability to run with the ball, find support lines, and excel in aerial contests, Marchant brings valuable skills to Sale’s midfield. The club, which has invested heavily in its squad, aims to play more expansive rugby and hopes to give Marchant and fellow new signing Courtney Lawes the opportunity to showcase their talents in the Premiership. This will be crucial for both players as they aim to make their cases for a return to the England team ahead of the next Rugby World Cup. Marchant’s upcoming matches include a home game against Bristol on Saturday, 26 September, and a game against Newcastle Red Bulls in October. He is hoping his father-in-law, Alan Shearer, a former Newcastle and England footballer, will attend the match against Newcastle.