England Ready for All Blacks Challenge After Dominant Japan Victory
England’s national rugby union team is set to fly from the Far East to Auckland, prepared for a daunting two-match Test series against the formidable All Blacks. The English squad arrives in New Zealand following an emphatic 52-17 victory over Japan, where fly-half Marcus Smith delivered a dazzling performance, scoring a try and providing two eye-catching assists.
Head coach Steve Borthwick is expected to maintain a largely stable lineup for the upcoming encounters, with Smith retaining the crucial No. 10 jersey. This decision comes despite a brief injury scare for Harlequins flanker Chandler Cunningham-South, who rolled his ankle during the Japan match. However, Borthwick has assured that the issue should not significantly impact the player’s training or availability for the first Test on July 6 in Dunedin.
In a further roster change, Saracens lock Nick Isiekwe will join the Red Rose squad, replacing the suspended Charlie Ewels, who was sent off during the Japan game for an ugly ruck clearance. Borthwick is confident in Isiekwe’s readiness, as the player was already involved in the squad’s early preparations.
“The England squad’s journey from the Far East to Auckland marks the beginning of a highly anticipated Test series against the mighty All Blacks, starting with the Dunedin clash, followed by a showdown at the Kiwis’ fortress of Eden Park a week later.”
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