England forwards coach Matt Proudfoot says loose forward Tom Curry could emulate the career of former All Blacks captain Richie McCaw.

Since making his debut against Argentina in 2017, the 22-year-old Curry has become a mainstay in Eddie Jones’ England lineup and formed part of a strong back row during the 2019 World Cup.

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Having already won 32 Test caps, Curry could be on track in his development to match McCaw, according to Proudfoot, who took over as England forwards coach in 2020.

McCaw captained New Zealand to two World Cup wins in 2011 and 2015, winning 145 caps and was inducted into the World Rugby Hall of Fame in 2019.

‘He’s a special, special player,’ Proudfoot said of Curry.

‘His mindset for growth and improvement, his determination, his relentless training regime … how he takes on board information, asks questions and makes sure that he adds the right thing to his game. When you see that in a player you know he will go a long, long way.

‘If you look at the way Tom has improved in the last three or four years, if he just continues that growth, I think, in three, four years’ time, he could be another McCaw.’

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