Oaklands Saracens Trio Earn England U18 Call-Up for Six Nations Festival

Three promising young players from the Oaklands Saracens Pathway – Lily Pereira dos Santos, Isabel van der Straaten, and Jess Taylor – have received international call-ups to represent England in the U18 Women’s Six Nations Festival. The prestigious tournament, held at Wellington College, will see England face off against Italy and Ireland on Matchday 1.

The opening fixture against Italy will see Lily Pereira dos Santos and Isabel van der Straaten earn starting positions in the England line-up, showcasing the strength and depth of the Oaklands Saracens programme. In the following match against Ireland, Jess Taylor will take to the field in the number seven shirt, joined once again by academy teammate Isabel, who will be coming off the bench as a replacement.

This is not the first time the trio have been recognised at international level. Earlier this year, all three were selected to represent England U18s in a fixture against Hartpury University, marking the beginning of what promises to be a bright future in the sport.

Their progress through the Oaklands Saracens Academy system has been nothing short of remarkable. Known for their tenacity, work ethic, and skill, Lily, Isabel, and Jess have consistently demonstrated the qualities required to succeed at the highest level. Coaches and supporters alike have praised their commitment and development, which have seen them transition from academy hopefuls to international representatives in a matter of months.

With the Six Nations Festival providing a platform for young talent to shine on an international stage, all eyes will be on the England squad – and particularly on these three rising stars – as they look to make their mark against Europe’s elite.