The New England Free Jacks will be without three players previously confirmed when the 2021 Major League Rugby season kicks off next Saturday. Steven Hinshaw, Liam Steel, and Tadhg Leader have left the team though the latter could yet make an about-face pending his success in another sport.
Injury means that outside center Steel will not be returning from New Zealand, while Hinshaw, who played backup to starting hooker Sean McNulty last season, has decided to pursue opportunities outside of professional sport. Leader is attempting to break into professional gridiron as a kicker.
While all three losses will be felt, there is cover already within the squad. Vili Toluta’u has bolstered the front row, while Harry Barlow and Poasa Waqanibau are strong options in the midfield. New arrival Harrison Boyle is set to wear the No10 shirt with another flyhalf specialist reportedly in talks.