England’s Backline Reshuffle Ahead of Crucial Six Nations Clash
In a bold move, head coach Steve Borthwick has initiated a significant reshuffle of England’s backline as the team prepares for its pivotal final Six Nations encounter against Wales at Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium this Saturday. One of the standout inclusions is Sale wing Tom Roebuck, who will earn his fourth cap after stepping in for Tommy Freeman. Freeman will transition to outside centre, forming an all-Northampton partnership with Fraser Dingwall.
On the opposite flank, Ollie Sleightholme has been dropped, despite his impressive two-try performance against Italy. In a strategic adjustment, Elliot Daly has been shifted from the full-back position to No 11, adding further versatility to the lineup.
This reshuffle also sees Marcus Smith returning to the full-back role after starting on the bench during the victory over Italy. Borthwick is keen to experiment with the dual-Smith setup, as Fin Smith retains the No 10 jersey.
In addition to the changes in the backline, there are notable adjustments in the forward pack. Luke Cowan-Dickie has reclaimed the starting hooker position from Jamie George, who just celebrated his 100th cap last Sunday. The Curry twins, Tom and Ben Curry, are both included in the back row, with Ben taking the place of Tom Willis. Borthwick expects a fierce contest at the breakdown against a rejuvenated Welsh side under the guidance of Matt Sherratt.
Heading into the match, England understands that only a victory will keep their hopes alive for the Six Nations title. They also rely on a favorable outcome in the match between France and Scotland, following France’s dominant victory over Ireland, which has positioned them as the frontrunners for the championship.
“We’re thrilled at the prospect of facing Wales at the Principality Stadium this weekend, one of the most iconic venues in rugby,” said Borthwick. “The atmosphere is sure to be electric, and we know we’ll need to perform at our absolute best to achieve the result we’re aiming for.”
England’s Starting XV and Replacements
- 15. Marcus Smith (Harlequins, 43 caps)
- 14. Tom Roebuck (Sale Sharks, 3 caps)
- 13. Tommy Freeman (Northampton Saints, 19 caps)
- 12. Fraser Dingwall (Northampton Saints, 3 caps)
- 11. Elliot Daly (Saracens, 72 caps)
- 10. Fin Smith (Northampton Saints, 10 caps)
- 9. Alex Mitchell (Northampton Saints, 22 caps)
- 1. Ellis Genge (Bristol Bears, 70 caps) – vice-captain
- 2. Luke Cowan-Dickie (Sale Sharks, 48 caps)
- 3. Will Stuart (Bath Rugby, 49 caps)
- 4. Maro Itoje (Saracens, 92 caps) – captain
- 5. Ollie Chessum (Leicester Tigers, 27 caps)
- 6. Tom Curry (Sale Sharks, 60 caps)
- 7. Ben Curry (Sale Sharks, 10 caps)
- 8. Ben Earl (Saracens, 41 caps)
Replacements:
- 16. Jamie George (Saracens, 100 caps) – vice-captain
- 17. Fin Baxter (Harlequins, 10 caps)
- 18. Joe Heyes (Leicester Tigers, 11 caps)
- 19. Chandler Cunningham-South (Harlequins, 14 caps)
- 20. Henry Pollock (Northampton Saints, uncapped)
- 21. Tom Willis (Saracens, 5 caps)
- 22. Jack van Poortvliet (Leicester Tigers, 17 caps)
- 23. George Ford (Sale Sharks, 98 caps)
