Steve Borthwick is gearing up for a seismic shake-up of the England rugby team following a dismal performance against Ireland. In a bid to rejuvenate the squad ahead of their upcoming clash with Italy, Borthwick is reportedly poised to introduce a completely revamped backline, with Tommy Freeman being the sole survivor—though shifting from wing to centre.
The recent 42-21 thrashing by Ireland has prompted this drastic overhaul. The Times reports that Borthwick's patience has worn thin after sticking with the majority of the same back players who also faltered against Scotland. Injuries have played a role in these changes with both Alex Mitchell and Ollie Lawrence sidelined for the Italy game, but it's clear that performance issues are driving Borthwick's hand.
"It's about agility and work rate in the air. We need players who fit this bill,"
an insider explained, shedding light on the expected changes. Cadan Murley is set to replace Henry Arundell on the left wing, while Tom Roebuck and possibly Marcus Smith could complete the back three. Despite Freddie Steward's prowess under the high ball, he might find himself out of the starting XV, with George Furbank and Elliot Daly contending for the full-back spot.
The midfield will see Freeman joined by Seb Atkinson, a choice that indicates a strategy pivoting towards physical dominance and ball-carrying heft over creative spark. This shift is further evidenced by Fin Smith likely taking over at fly-half from George Ford, who may be dropped entirely from the squad due to recent form. Ben Spencer is expected to fill the scrum-half position.
This selection not only aims to bring fresh energy into the team but also aligns with Borthwick’s tactical vision, which emphasizes strength and aerial ability. As England prepares to face Italy, these changes could be crucial in halting their current losing streak and restoring confidence within the squad. The upcoming match in Rome will be a telling indicator of whether this new-look team can translate Borthwick's bold strategy into a much-needed victory.
England predicted team v Italy:
15. George Furbank/Elliot Daly, 14. Marcus Smith, 11. Cadan Murley, 13. Tommy Freeman, 12. Seb Atkinson, 10. Fin Smith, 9. Ben Spencer, and others to be confirmed.
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Steve Borthwick is gearing up for a seismic shake-up of the England rugby team following a dismal performance against Ireland. In a bid to rejuvenate the squad ahead of their upcoming clash with Italy, Borthwick is reportedly poised to introduce a completely revamped backline, with Tommy Freeman being the sole survivor—though shifting from wing to centre.
The recent 42-21 thrashing by Ireland has prompted this drastic overhaul. The Times reports that Borthwick's patience has worn thin after sticking with the majority of the same back players who also faltered against Scotland. Injuries have played a role in these changes with both Alex Mitchell and Ollie Lawrence sidelined for the Italy game, but it's clear that performance issues are driving Borthwick's hand.
"It's about agility and work rate in the air. We need players who fit this bill,"
an insider explained, shedding light on the expected changes. Cadan Murley is set to replace Henry Arundell on the left wing, while Tom Roebuck and possibly Marcus Smith could complete the back three. Despite Freddie Steward's prowess under the high ball, he might find himself out of the starting XV, with George Furbank and Elliot Daly contending for the full-back spot.The midfield will see Freeman joined by Seb Atkinson, a choice that indicates a strategy pivoting towards physical dominance and ball-carrying heft over creative spark. This shift is further evidenced by Fin Smith likely taking over at fly-half from George Ford, who may be dropped entirely from the squad due to recent form. Ben Spencer is expected to fill the scrum-half position.
This selection not only aims to bring fresh energy into the team but also aligns with Borthwick’s tactical vision, which emphasizes strength and aerial ability. As England prepares to face Italy, these changes could be crucial in halting their current losing streak and restoring confidence within the squad. The upcoming match in Rome will be a telling indicator of whether this new-look team can translate Borthwick's bold strategy into a much-needed victory.
England predicted team v Italy:
15. George Furbank/Elliot Daly, 14. Marcus Smith, 11. Cadan Murley, 13. Tommy Freeman, 12. Seb Atkinson, 10. Fin Smith, 9. Ben Spencer, and others to be confirmed.