England's upcoming clash with France XV presents an intriguing opportunity for Steve Borthwick to experiment and assess his squad's potential. With a mix of experienced players and fresh talent, Borthwick is poised to make bold decisions, particularly in the backline, where Benhard Janse van Rensburg takes center stage. The coach's approach to this fixture is a strategic move, aiming to build on a promising performance against France in the Six Nations while addressing the team's recent struggles in the Championship.
The absence of key backline players allows Borthwick to explore alternative combinations, with Freddie Steward, Tom Roebuck, and Cadan Murley forming a formidable back-three. This decision, however, means that Noah Caluori and Adam Radwan, who have been in exceptional form, are temporarily omitted. The midfield pairing of Max Ojomoh and Benhard Janse van Rensburg is particularly intriguing. Both players thrive in a free-flowing, multi-positional setup, offering a unique dynamic that could be a game-changer for England's attack.
Seb Atkinson's versatility as an inside center is noted, but the focus is on giving Ojomoh and Janse van Rensburg a chance to showcase their skills. The fly-half position is a close call between George Ford and Charlie Atkinson, with Ford's experience likely securing the starting role. Jack van Poortvliet's scrum-half skills are also recognized, ensuring a strong foundation in the forwards.
The pack boasts a strong lineup with Ben Earl, Tom Curry, and the versatile Ollie Chessum. The breakdown role is a key consideration, with Chessum's performance at the Stade de France suggesting he could be the starting blindside flanker. This move frees up George Martin for a lock position, while Charlie Ewels' leadership qualities make him a likely starter. The front-row remains stable, with Joe Heyes and Jamie George in their familiar spots, while Beno Obano's scrummaging prowess could earn him a start at loosehead.
In summary, Borthwick's approach to this fixture is a strategic blend of experimentation and assessment. By making calculated changes, he aims to identify the team's strengths and weaknesses, setting the stage for future success. The predicted starting XV showcases a balanced mix of experience and talent, with the potential for further adjustments as the game unfolds.
