The Rise of Elliot Daly: From Schoolboy to Lions Contender
Even during his school days, Elliot Daly found himself in the shadow of more prominent figures. When Whitgift School triumphed in the 2010 National Schools’ Rugby Cup final, one name dominated the headlines: Marland Yarde. The dynamic outside-centre, who would later go on to score eight tries in 13 appearances for England, showcased his prowess by netting a hat-trick, with his third try coming from inside his own 22. However, it was his centre partner, a young Daly, who would go on to win the cup again the very next year and, more significantly, to earn 72 caps (and counting) for England. As the summer approaches, Daly is being touted as a key player for a potential third British and Irish Lions tour.
Just a few months ago, however, such a prospect seemed distant. Daly was not included in the 23-man squad for England’s Six Nations opener against Ireland, and his optimal position remained a subject of debate: was he best suited to play at 11, 13, or 15? By the end of the tournament, he would have played all three positions for England within a single week.
When the nation’s top coaches began to take note of Daly, he was actually donning the No 12 shirt. “I was coaching at Saracens and I kept hearing about this kid,” recalls Paul Gustard, who spoke to The i Paper. “Marland was obviously making waves too, and you always see these talents and think, ‘They’d be interesting for us.’ But this kid [Daly] was nailing 50-metre penalties for Whitgift at Twickenham. You’re thinking, ‘This kid’s not right!’ His speed, incredible outside break, and exquisite skills stood out.”
To the modern England fan, such a description is unmistakably linked to one player, given the uniqueness of Daly’s skill set. A young Daly showcased his talent while playing for the England Under-18s in 2010 (Photo: Getty).
Daly was already part of the Wasps academy, making it challenging for Gustard’s Saracens to recruit him even if they wished to. However, fate would bring them together again. Five years later, the uncapped Daly was called up to the England squad by Eddie Jones, who had appointed Gustard as his defence coach. Although Daly had impressed during the preceding summer’s Rugby World Cup training camp, he had yet to make his international debut.
Initially, it was unclear how he would fit into the team. Jones preferred the Ford-Farrell dual playmakers in the midfield, with the powerful Manu Tuilagi outside them. Although Daly typically played at outside centre for Wasps, he made his international debut off the bench as an inside centre, a position he had played in school. Eventually, he secured a starting position, but it was in a new role once again.
“That Ford-Farrell-Tuilagi line-up pushed Elliot out to the wing or full-back, and for a long time, full-back was occupied by [Alex] Goode and [Mike] Brown. That’s probably why he ended up playing on the wing, particularly in his first 15 or 20 caps, and not really in any other position for England,” Gustard explains. “His versatility has always helped him but may have also hindered him in some ways. He’s been shifted around a lot and probably desires to establish himself in one position. Yet, given how good he is in all three, it’s incredibly difficult not to select him in any role. He could start in any position and excel.”
Even now, as a senior figure, Daly has not yet cemented his place in a single position. He started as the full-back against Italy but found himself at outside centre just eight minutes into the match due to Ollie Lawrence’s Achilles injury. “You don’t want to see anyone go off, but I just tried to focus on fulfilling my role, whatever that may be,” Daly reflects. “There were some starter plays that I was learning on the fly to ensure I was in the right position, but apart from that, it isn’t too different coming from full-back in terms of attacking play.”
As England gears up for their Six Nations finale on Saturday, Daly returns to the wing in Cardiff, where he has fond memories of scoring a late try in the corner eight years ago, silencing the Welsh crowd—“It went very quiet after that, which was nice,” he recalls with a twinkle in his eye, while Gustard and other England coaches cheered loudly from the stands.
“I think if you asked him, he always wants to play 13,” Gustard notes. “But he has this uncanny ability to score crucial points at pivotal moments: remember Wales away in 2017, where he crossed for a try in the corner after two beautiful passes from Farrell and Ford? Right place, right time. Just three weeks ago, he scored the winning try against France with a brilliant line—poor defence from France, of course, but still, right time, right place. His versatility aids in that.”
Elliot Daly scoring the winning try in the final minute to clinch victory for England over France at the Allianz Stadium. 
#Breitling #DefiningMoment @Breitling pic.twitter.com/o8JmKSzXh9 — Guinness Men’s Six Nations (@SixNationsRugby) February 8, 2025
Daly also possesses a “metronomic” left boot, which Gustard describes as essential in a world where low-percentage rugby often prevails. He is frequently called upon for long-range shots due to his powerful kicking ability. Eight years ago, he famously kicked one from near the left touchline inside his own half against New Zealand for the Lions.
Now, he has a strong chance of wearing that same jersey again, perhaps even with the same No 11 on it, this summer in Australia. At 32, he has become a senior member of the England squad and played a crucial role last week in creating a tribute video to honor Jamie George’s 100th cap. The pair were best men at each other’s weddings.
A natural prankster, Daly missed last year’s summer tour to be present for the birth of his first child. Some teammates mention that he has matured but still retains his boyish charm. “What you see when he’s smiling during the game is what you get, 24/7 during the week,” Gustard observes. “He’s an incredibly good person, and a real asset in the group because his emotions are steady. He doesn’t fluctuate with selection, poor performance, or outstanding performance. He’s consistently positive and filled with energy.”
On a lengthy, challenging tour away from home, it’s easy to see why someone with Daly’s experience and adaptability would be appealing to Lions head coach Andy Farrell. Gustard adds, “Naturally, there are many players vying for that position. A significant advantage is his ability to play across three positions. He’s proven himself and brings a wealth of experience. He’s also a fantastic team player and a likable individual, able to collaborate with diverse personalities.”
“Ultimately, the most successful groups are those that cultivate a genuine unity and bond, leading to better performance,” he continues. “Elliot has demonstrated not only his playing prowess but also his ability to connect and work well with others. He’s sure to be a valuable asset for any selection.”
Regardless of whether he is the main man or not, Daly would be a seasoned veteran on this summer’s Lions tour. And at this stage in his career, he likely won’t mind what number is on his back.
