In a strategic move ahead of the looming Nations Championship Tests in July, England head coach Steve Borthwick has expanded his squad by incorporating 13 players from Leicester Tigers and Bath, following the recent PREM Rugby semi-finals. This decision comes as the rugby community keenly anticipates the upcoming friendly against France XV this Friday night, setting the stage for intense summer confrontations.
Among the newcomers, Leicester contributes significantly with Jamie Blamire, Ollie Chessum, Joe Heyes, George Martin, Archie van der Flier, Adam Radwan, Freddie Steward, and Jack van Poortvliet enhancing the squad's depth. Bath players Charlie Ewels, Ted Hill, Beno Obano, Vilikesa Sela, and Max Ojomoh also join the ranks, ready to prove their mettle on the international stage. However, notable by his absence is Maro Itoje, the team's captain, who is currently in discussions regarding his participation in the summer Tests against formidable teams like the Springboks, Fiji, and Argentina.
"The inclusion of these players is crucial as we build towards the Nations Championship and further strengthen our team dynamics," remarked Borthwick.
While the squad sees fresh faces, some players like Ben Spencer are hinted to have a summer break. Additionally, Will Hobson, Afolabi Fasogbon, Ben Redshaw, Nathan Jibulu, and Tobias Elliot will return to their clubs after their stint in the senior squad last week. The rehabilitation group remains constant with Arthur Clark, Luke Cowan-Dickie, Ellis Genge, and Guy Pepper, the latter continuing his journey back to full fitness.
The match against France XV is scheduled for the 19th of June at Stade de la Rabine in Vannes, promising to be a showcase of the new dynamics within the team. The match-day squad is expected to be announced shortly, adding to the anticipation.
England XV squad in full:
Forwards: Jamie Blamire, Ollie Chessum, Tom Curry, Theo Dan, Alex Dombrandt, Ben Earl, Charlie Ewels, Jamie George, Joe Heyes, Ted Hill, Nick Isiekwe, Jack Kenningham, George Kloska, George Martin, Beno Obano, Asher Opoku-Fordjour, Vilikesa Sela, Hugh Tizard, Archie van der Flier
Backs: Charlie Atkinson, Seb Atkinson, Noah Caluori, George Ford, Benhard Janse van Rensburg, Cadan Murley, Max Ojomoh, Raffi Quirke, Adam Radwan, Harry Randall, Tom Roebuck, Marcus Smith, Freddie Steward, Jack van Poortvliet
Rehabilitation: Arthur Clark, Luke Cowan-Dickie, Ellis Genge, Guy Pepper
As England gears up for an intense summer of rugby, the blend of seasoned players and emerging talents in Borthwick's expanded squad promises to add a thrilling chapter to England's storied rugby legacy.