England’s Nations Championship campaign begins in Johannesburg in less than two weeks, with Steve Borthwick’s side facing the toughest possible opening assignment against back-to-back world champions South Africa.
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After a disappointing year that raised fresh questions about England’s progress, the tournament presents an opportunity to reset and make a statement. Here, we predict the 23 players Borthwick could select for the showdown.
Back Three
15 George Furbank
14 Tommy Freeman
11 Immanuel Feyi-Waboso
Freddie Steward has been a reliable performer at international level, but his Six Nations campaign fell short of expectations, making a change at full-back feel necessary.
With Northampton Saints, George Furbank has shown he offers a complete skill set and looks the ideal candidate to take over the role.
His inclusion would also complement Tommy Freeman on the wing, allowing him to return to his preferred position after a stint at outside centre that produced mixed results.
Feyi-Waboso’s selection depends on his recovery from injury, but having featured in the Prem final, he appears fit enough to be involved.
Centres
13 Max Ojomoh
12 Seb Atkinson
With Benhard Janse van Rensburg unavailable for selection against South Africa, England’s midfield options are slightly limited.
Ojomoh and Atkinson are arguably the most exciting long-term prospects in the centre positions and deserve the opportunity to build a partnership that could become a key part of England’s future.
POLL:
Halfbacks
10 Fin Smith
9 Alex Mitchell
Although Mitchell has only recently returned from injury and was arguably eclipsed by teammate Archie McParland towards the end of the season, he remains the frontrunner for the starting scrum-half role. His established understanding with Northampton Saints teammate Fin Smith strengthens his case.
Smith, meanwhile, has done enough to earn a sustained run in the number 10 shirt ahead of George Ford. Ford’s performances this season have been inconsistent, while Smith offers a more rounded and dynamic option with significant room for further development.
