Tighthead Tussle in Store as England Prepare to Face Wallaby Powerhouse
England’s ability to overcome their recurring scrum woes will be put to the test when they face off against Australia’s powered-up pack at Twickenham this Saturday. The box-office showdown between two rival ‘rhinos’ – Taniela Tupou and Ellis Genge – is set to be the decisive battleground.
In recent years, the Wallabies’ scrum had been viewed as a weak link, but that narrative has dramatically shifted. Under the expert guidance of former Saracens prop Petrus du Plessis, Australia’s set-piece has become a formidable force, thanks in large part to the imposing presence of 21st 3lb tighthead Tupou.
England Looks to Address Scrum Struggles
England head coach Steve Borthwick acknowledged the need to address the scrum struggles that proved costly in their narrow defeat against New Zealand last weekend. With replacement props Fin Baxter and Dan Cole unable to provide a stable platform in the closing stages, the home side’s hopes of snatching a famous victory evaporated.
“The scrum gave away too many penalties in the last 20 minutes of the game. We are aware of that.” – Jamie George, England Captain
Borthwick emphasized the technical adjustments required to shore up the set-piece, while also underlining the team’s aggressive mindset.
A Mouth-watering Tighthead Tussle
The prospect of Tupou, known as the ‘Tongan Thor’, locking horns with Genge, the so-called ‘Baby Rhino’, is a mouth-watering proposition. Du Plessis, who previously worked with the Wallabies, described Tupou as “one of the most explosive human beings” he has encountered, with the ability to “really damage England” if he secures the upper hand.
However, George backed his teammate Genge, describing him as “world-class” and confident that the Bristol-born prop can outperform his opposite number. The England captain also highlighted the threat posed by replacement hooker Luke Cowan-Dickie, who is set to provide additional power and aggression to the home pack.
As England seek to rebound from their disappointment against the All Blacks, the scrum battle will be a crucial factor in determining the outcome of this eagerly anticipated clash between the old rivals.
🔗 Source
