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Ollie Chessum: ‘There was no love lost but me and Henry are close friends. We have the same goal to get this England team winning’

Ollie Chessum says he and Henry Pollock had a "laugh and a joke" about their recent clash and are "very much on the same page" on England duty.

By Neil Squires · Rugby Pass

Published: Friday, 6 November 2026 at 8:33 AM

Key Things to Know

Ollie Chessum confirmed he and Henry Pollock are close friends despite their East Midlands derby spat.
England will face Australia at Allianz Stadium to kick off their autumn Nations Championship campaign.
Chessum is set to earn his 39th England cap following strong form as Leicester Tigers captain.

The Story in 60 Seconds

England forward Ollie Chessum has clarified that he and Henry Pollock remain close friends despite their heated clash during the East Midlands derby. Chessum explained that their club rivalry was swiftly put aside once they joined England camp ahead of their upcoming international against Australia at Allianz Stadium.

Chessum, who will earn his 39th cap on Sunday, highlighted England's focus on physicality, set-pieces, and improving discipline against the Wallabies. He noted that the squad is targeting the inaugural Nations Championship title, while balancing his growing responsibilities within England's leadership group.

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