England head coach Steve Borthwick has unveiled a 26-man squad to gear up for the upcoming England XV versus France XV match scheduled for Friday, 19 June. This announcement is particularly notable for the inclusion of 10 uncapped players and the exclusion of stalwart Maro Itoje, sparking discussions about his rest period during this summer. The squad selection is strategically timed before the Nations Championship campaign, highlighting a blend of fresh talent and seasoned players.
Among the newcomers, Bristol Bears' centre Benhard Janse van Rensburg headlines the list, which also features Afolabi Fasogbon, Will Hobson, Nathan Jibulu, Jack Kenningham, George Kloska, Hugh Tizard, Noah Caluori, Tobias Elliot, and Ben Redshaw. Notably, Hobson, Jibulu, Elliot, and Redshaw are stepping into the senior squad for the first time, signaling Borthwick’s intent to rejuvenate the team dynamics.
The squad’s composition reflects a deliberate omission of players from Northampton Saints, Bath, Exeter Chiefs, and Leicester Tigers, all of whom are embroiled in the PREM Rugby semi-finals this weekend. This decision underscores the balancing act Borthwick faces in managing player workload and integrating emerging talents.
"We are looking at the big picture with Maro's career and the upcoming challenges," Borthwick explained, hinting at the strategic rest for Itoje.
The blend of youth and experience is a critical aspect of Borthwick’s strategy. Veterans like Ben Earl, Jamie George, and George Ford are set to provide the backbone for the team, alongside the likes of Charlie Atkinson, who returns after a strong performance for Gloucester. The squad also welcomes back Raffi Quirke and Harry Randall, who missed last month’s alignment camp.
Injuries have not been overlooked, with Luke Cowan-Dickie, Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, and Ellis Genge joining the camp to continue their rehabilitation from arm, face, and calf injuries respectively. This careful management of player health is crucial as England prepares for the physical demands of the Nations Championship.
The full squad list is as follows:
Forwards: Arthur Clark, Tom Curry, Theo Dan, Alex Dombrandt, Ben Earl, Afolabi Fasogbon, Jamie George, Will Hobson, Nick Isiekwe, Nathan Jibulu, Jack Kenningham, George Kloska, Asher Opoku-Fordjour, Hugh Tizard.
Backs: Charlie Atkinson, Seb Atkinson, Noah Caluori, Tobias Elliott, George Ford, Benhard Janse van Rensburg, Cadan Murley, Raffi Quirke, Harry Randall, Ben Redshaw, Tom Roebuck, Marcus Smith.
Rehabilitation: Luke Cowan-Dickie, Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, Ellis Genge.
This strategic squad selection by Borthwick not only addresses immediate tactical needs but also sets the stage for nurturing future talent, ensuring the longevity and competitiveness of English rugby on the international stage.