The short version
- Steve Borthwick has named a 36-man training squad that heavily favors experienced players over those currently in peak form.
- The selection strategy aims to build cohesion ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup, with only nine competitive matches remaining before the tournament.
- Injuries and fitness concerns for key players like Fin Smith and Seb Atkinson add uncertainty to the final lineup for upcoming tests against Australia, Japan, and New Zealand.
With less than a year remaining until the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia, England head coach Steve Borthwick has signaled a clear preference for stability over current form. The announcement of a 36-man training squad for the upcoming autumn tests reveals a strategy focused on established relationships and Test match experience rather than rewarding recent domestic performances. This approach comes as the countdown intensifies, with only nine competitive matches scheduled for the home nations before the tournament begins next October.
The squad composition reflects a deliberate choice to minimize disruption. While there are some notable inclusions, such as the recall of Joe Marchant and the selection of Will Joseph following a strong start to the season for Gloucester, the majority of the group consists of familiar faces. Uncapped players Archie McParland and Kepu Tuipulotu have been added to provide depth at scrum-half and hooker, respectively, but their inclusion appears designed to offer freshness within a largely tried-and-tested framework rather than to signal a significant shift in direction.
Critics and former players have pointed out that this selection process does not align strictly with current form. Chris Ashton, a former England wing, noted on a recent podcast that the squad is clearly built with the World Cup in mind, prioritizing the coach's existing bonds with players. This has led to questions about why several performers who have been short of minutes or struggling for consistency this season remain central to Borthwick's plans.
Veterans such as Fin Baxter, Luke Cowan-Dickie, Jamie George, Will Stuart, George Furbank, and Ben Curry are all included despite recent challenges in their club rugby. These players bring invaluable experience at the international level, which Borthwick appears to value highly as he navigates the pressure to deliver results. Ashton suggested that the coach feels constrained by the timeline, believing it is too late to make substantial changes without risking the cohesion needed for a major tournament.
The midfield positions remain a particular area of uncertainty and debate. While Seb Atkinson and Henry Slade started England's last Test victory against Argentina, they face competition from Marchant and Joseph for the number 13 shirt. Ugo Monye highlighted the versatility of both Marchant and Joseph, noting their ability to play on the wing as well as in the center. However, he also expressed surprise that more bold decisions were not made, given the strong domestic form of players like Will Joseph.
Other notable omissions have drawn attention from pundits. Nathan Jibulu, who has delivered standout performances for Sale, and George Hendy, who has been consistently excellent for Northampton, were left out of the initial call-up. Fitz Harding from Bristol was also mentioned as a player whose form might warrant consideration if selection were based purely on current performance levels. These exclusions underscore the tension between rewarding domestic success and maintaining international consistency.
Injury concerns add another layer of complexity to Borthwick's preparations. Benhard Janse van Rensburg is ruled out, a significant loss given his rapid integration into the setup. Additionally, Seb Atkinson and Immanuel Feyi-Waboso are on the rehabilitation list, with their fitness being closely monitored by medical staff. Fly-half Fin Smith, a likely starter, will miss training due to a calf issue, though it is not considered serious. Charlie Atkinson has been called up as cover, highlighting the need for depth in key positions.
The forwards' selection picture appears more settled, with Ellis Genge, Jamie George, Luke Cowan-Dickie, Joe Heyes, Will Stuart, Ollie Chessum, Alex Coles, Maro Itoje, George Martin, Ben Earl, Tom Curry, and Henry Pollock all expected to start if fit. This stability in the forward pack contrasts with the uncertainty in the backline, particularly at center. The players will spend time in camp before returning to their clubs for one more round of league action, then rejoin the national team a week before the first test against Australia.
Borthwick's limited time with the squad before the Wallabies arrive emphasizes the importance of established combinations. With precious little opportunity to experiment, the coach is likely to rely on players who know each other well and can execute strategies without extensive rehearsal. This pragmatic approach aims to maximize England's chances in the upcoming tests while laying a foundation for the World Cup campaign.
As the autumn series approaches, the focus remains on balancing immediate results with long-term goals. The decisions made now will shape the team's trajectory leading into 2027. While some fans and analysts may prefer bolder selections based on current form, Borthwick's strategy reflects a cautious optimism that experience and familiarity will yield better outcomes in high-stakes matches.
Sources behind this briefing
Go to the original reporting
- BBC News↗Borthwick's autumn questions as World Cup looms
