Joe Cokanasiga is Bath's joint-top try-scorer this season with 10 in all competitions Bath winger Joe Cokanasiga said he does not feel his England career is over and he has felt more "hunger" this season to play internationally again. The 27-year-old has been capped 16 times by England but has not played since August 2023 and was overlooked for the World Cup squad that autumn. Cokanasiga is Bath's joint-leading try-scorer this season, with 10 in all competitions. "This year especially I felt more of a hunger to play for England again because I'd been out for so long. If it happens, it happens," Cokanasiga said. "It's something that's still in my head, I spoke to Steve [Borthwick, England head coach] the other day and I have to play well for my club first, that's my priority. "But I feel like if I do that then I'll get the best outcome. I don't feel that my England career is over yet." Cokanasiga, who was born in Fiji, represented England at under-18 and under-20 level before being called up to the senior squad by Eddie Jones in 2017. He made his Test debut in November 2018 aged 19, scoring a try in the win against Japan and another against Australia a week later. In total he has 13 tries across his 16 games but says he is a much more "consistent" player now than he was when he earned his last cap. "The main [area of improvement] was the high ball because that was a big thing that didn't get me into the World Cup, I felt like," Cokanasiga said. "That was for me a blessing in disguise, because I came back and worked on that massively and just keep going back over my hand-eye. "Now I feel like I've improved massively on it and it's a part of the game I look forward to." Cokanasiga has scored 13 tries in 16 games for England but has not played international rugby since 2023 Cokanasiga will start on the wing against French Top 14 side Lyon on Friday night (20:00 BST) as Premiership leaders Bath look to clinch their second trophy of the season in the European Challenge Cup final, having also been part of the squad thatwon the Premiership Rugby Cupin February. He scored a scintillating try last weekend as theythrashed Leicester 43-15in the league, running from deep in his own half after Max Ojomoh's interception. Bath head of rugby Johann van Graan said Cokanasiga has become a "more rounded player" during his tenure at the club. "He's by far the biggest winger that I've coached but Joe's got this amazing ability to finish tries, he's got this hunger to get better," he said. "We've ID'd certain bits of his game he needs to get better and he's become a much more all-round player." Cokanasiga agreed his consistency across the pitch has come with the more experienced he has become. "As I've gotten older my priorities have changed of how I need to perform in the game," he said. "Then we've got people like [Bath attack coach] Lee Blackett that has a different view of the game than I do and that's helped me improve massively. "Johann's someone I can go and speak to about anything and let everything out, he can be honest with me, I can be honest with him, same with Lee and JP [Ferreira, defence coach]. "They give you a lot of confidence and that's massive in players."
Cokanasiga has 'hunger' to play for England again
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Joe Cokanasiga Expresses Desire for England Rugby Return Amid Strong Club Performances"
Bbc News
8.0
TruthLens AI Summary
Joe Cokanasiga, the Bath winger and joint-top try-scorer this season with 10 tries across all competitions, expressed his desire to return to the England national team after being sidelined since August 2023. Cokanasiga, who has 16 caps for England, was not selected for the World Cup squad but remains optimistic about his future with the national team. He noted that this season has reignited a significant 'hunger' within him to play for England again, especially after a prolonged absence from the international stage. Cokanasiga emphasized the importance of performing well for Bath as his current priority, believing that strong club performances will lead to opportunities with the national team. He recently discussed his aspirations with England head coach Steve Borthwick, reaffirming that he does not consider his England career to be over yet.
Cokanasiga's journey in rugby began with his representation of England at the under-18 and under-20 levels before making his senior debut in November 2018. He has scored 13 tries for England in his 16 appearances but acknowledges that he has evolved into a more consistent player since his last cap. Acknowledging past shortcomings, particularly with high ball skills that affected his selection for the World Cup, Cokanasiga has worked diligently on improving this aspect of his game. His recent performances, including a standout try against Leicester, highlight his growth and determination. Bath's head of rugby, Johann van Graan, praised Cokanasiga for becoming a more rounded player during his time at the club, emphasizing his finishing ability and commitment to continuous improvement. Cokanasiga's development is further supported by his coaching staff, who provide valuable insights and encouragement, fostering his confidence and overall performance on the field.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article sheds light on Joe Cokanasiga's aspirations to return to the England rugby team after being omitted from the World Cup squad. It highlights his current performance with Bath, where he has emerged as a key player this season. His reflections on personal growth and readiness to improve his game are significant, as they underscore the determination of an athlete eager to reclaim his place in international rugby.
Intent behind the Publication
The aim appears to be to reignite public interest in Cokanasiga and his potential return to the national team. By focusing on his performance and mindset, the article seeks to create a narrative of hope and resilience, which can resonate with fans and the rugby community.
Public Perception
The article likely aims to foster a positive perception of Cokanasiga, portraying him as a dedicated athlete who is focused on improvement. This narrative can help maintain fan engagement and support for the player, while also keeping the discussion about the national team dynamic.
Information Omission
There are no obvious attempts to conceal information within the article. However, it could be interpreted that the article emphasizes Cokanasiga's achievements and determination while downplaying the competitive aspects of selection for the national team, which might be more complex.
Manipulative Aspects
The manipulation rate in this article could be considered moderate. While it presents Cokanasiga in a favorable light, it does so in a manner that could also be seen as self-promotion. The language used is optimistic, which might lead readers to feel a strong sense of support for him without fully considering the competitive landscape of rugby selection.
Truthfulness of the Report
The report appears to be credible, given that it references Cokanasiga's statistics and his statements regarding his career. The details about his performance and previous caps for England contribute to its authenticity.
Social Narrative
The narrative being pushed seems to be one of perseverance and hope, aiming to inspire young athletes and fans who might resonate with Cokanasiga's journey. It emphasizes the importance of hard work and improvement, which are universally appreciated values in sports.
Connections to Other News
While this article focuses solely on Cokanasiga, it could be linked to broader discussions in sports journalism about athlete selection, performance pressure, and national pride in rugby, especially following an important event like the World Cup.
Impact on Society and Economy
The article's potential influence on society is more about sports culture and national identity rather than direct economic implications. It may indirectly affect local economies through increased interest in rugby and local clubs if Cokanasiga's return is celebrated.
Community Support
This piece is likely to resonate with rugby enthusiasts, especially those who support Bath and the England national team. It may appeal to younger audiences who look up to athletes as role models.
Market Influence
The news may have limited direct influence on stock markets or global economic conditions. However, it could positively impact merchandise sales for Bath and England if Cokanasiga's story captures public interest.
Geopolitical Relevance
While the article does not directly address geopolitical themes, it reflects broader cultural narratives about national pride in sports, which can be significant in the context of international competitions.
Use of AI in Writing
There is no clear indication that AI was used to write this article. However, if AI were involved, it might have assisted in structuring the content or optimizing language for engagement. The tone and style suggest human authorship focused on creating a personal connection with the audience.
In conclusion, the article effectively promotes Cokanasiga's aspirations and improvements, while also shaping a narrative that encourages support and engagement from the rugby community.