England Rugby Union Squad Braced for Defining Summer Fixtures
Much like England’s football team led by Gareth Southgate, Steve Borthwick’s rugby union squad is set for an exhilarating and potentially pivotal few weeks ahead. The similarities between the two national teams are striking, with both boasting exciting young talents blessed with exceptional natural ability.
In the football team, the likes of Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden, and Bukayo Saka shine, while the rugby union squad features the likes of Marcus Smith, Tommy Freeman, and Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, all of whom have the potential to make a major impact. Borthwick’s selection choices, particularly his decision to start George Furbank at full-back over the highly-rated Freddie Steward, have been particularly encouraging.
The progress of players like Feyi-Waboso and the continued development of Smith and Freeman have been heartening to see. After the “kick-fest” approach that plagued the end of the Eddie Jones era, England have shown a willingness to attack with pace and intensity, a tactic Borthwick is expected to continue building upon.
With Smith or Fin Smith at fly-half and the electric Freeman and Feyi-Waboso on the wings, England’s backline is primed to play at a high tempo and cause serious damage to their opponents.
The key question, however, is whether the forwards can match this attacking intent. If coached correctly, they have the capabilities, but the English pack still lags behind the world’s best.
Summer Fixtures Present Massive Opportunity
This summer’s fixtures against Japan and New Zealand present a massive opportunity for England to bridge that gap. Borthwick’s selection decisions, particularly the all-important 10-12-13 axis, will be crucial. With Manu Tuilagi now unavailable, there is a chance to move on from a period that, despite some standout performances, has not quite delivered on its promise.
An exciting England XV could feature:
- Furbank at full-back
- Feyi-Waboso and Ollie Sleightholme on the wings
- A midfield pairing of Henry Slade and Tommy Freeman
- Marcus Smith at fly-half
This blend of youth and experience could provide the attacking spark England need to shine on the international stage this summer.
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