Steve Borthwick Faces Major England Selection Decisions Ahead of Nations Championship

England Head Coach Steve Borthwick faces several important selection decisions as preparations intensify for November’s Nations Championship fixtures against Australia, Japan and New Zealand at the Allianz Stadium, Twickenham.

England will return to international action on Sunday 8th November following a summer campaign that saw them defeat Fiji and Argentina after an opening defeat to South Africa. Those results provided some encouragement following a difficult Six Nations, but competition for places remains fierce as Borthwick considers his options.

With the 2027 Rugby World Cup now just over a year away, the upcoming three-match series also represents an important opportunity for established internationals and emerging players to strengthen their positions within the squad.

Who Will Start at Fly-Half for England?

One of Borthwick’s biggest decisions concerns the fly-half position, with Fin Smith, George Ford and Marcus Smith all offering different qualities.

Fin Smith started all three of England’s summer Nations Championship fixtures at fly-half, helping his country secure victories over Fiji and Argentina. The Northampton Saints playmaker has continued to gain international experience and will be hoping to retain the number ten shirt when Australia visit Twickenham.

However, George Ford remains a strong contender. The experienced Sale Sharks fly-half has been one of England’s most influential players under Borthwick and offers considerable international experience, particularly with his tactical kicking and game management.

Marcus Smith provides another option, although his versatility has seen him increasingly utilised at full-back. The Harlequins star featured prominently during the summer, scoring against both Fiji and Argentina, and his attacking qualities could give Borthwick further flexibility when selecting his backline.

England Must Replace Injured Sam Underhill

England’s back-row selection has become another significant talking point following confirmation that Sam Underhill will miss the November internationals.

The Bath flanker suffered a ruptured biceps during the opening weekend of the Premiership season and is expected to remain unavailable until December or January. His absence removes an experienced international from Borthwick’s options, although England have considerable strength in depth across the back row.

Ben Earl remains a leading contender following another productive summer, while Tom Curry, Guy Pepper and Henry Pollock are among those competing for places.

Pollock strengthened his case with an impressive hat-trick during England’s 73-8 victory over Fiji in July. The Northampton Saints youngster has already demonstrated his attacking abilities on the international stage and will be hoping to earn further opportunities this autumn.

Borthwick must now decide which combination offers the best balance of physicality, defensive work and attacking threat, particularly ahead of the demanding contests against Australia and New Zealand.

Could Courtney Lawes and Joe Marchant Return?

Two familiar names could also enter the conversation ahead of England’s autumn squad announcement.

Courtney Lawes and Joe Marchant are both eligible for England selection again following their returns to Premiership rugby with Sale Sharks. Neither was included in Borthwick’s September training camp, with the England Head Coach keen to assess their performances following their respective spells playing in France.

Lawes, who represented England on 105 occasions, brings considerable international experience and leadership. His return to English rugby has created the possibility of another appearance for his country, although competition for places within the forwards remains significant.

Marchant could also strengthen England’s midfield options. The centre was a regular member of the side that reached the semi-finals of the 2023 Rugby World Cup and offers valuable experience in both attack and defence.

Both players have opportunities to strengthen their cases during the opening weeks of the Premiership campaign, with Borthwick expected to assess form alongside performances from those already involved in the international setup.

Competition for Places Across England’s Backline

Beyond the fly-half battle, England have several decisions to make regarding their midfield and back three.

Tommy Freeman and Immanuel Feyi-Waboso both scored tries during the summer victory over Argentina, while Henry Slade and Seb Atkinson were involved in the starting side. Their performances have given Borthwick several established options as he considers the best combinations for November.

The full-back position also presents an interesting selection question. George Furbank’s summer campaign was interrupted by appendicitis, while Marcus Smith demonstrated his versatility in the position during England’s victories over Fiji and Argentina.

With Freddie Steward also possessing considerable international experience, Borthwick has several potential options depending on how he wants England to approach their upcoming opponents.

England’s Nations Championship Fixtures in November

England enter the November stage of the inaugural Nations Championship with two victories from their opening three matches, having recovered from defeat against South Africa to overcome Fiji and Argentina.

Borthwick’s team now face three consecutive home fixtures at the Allianz Stadium, Twickenham:

The competition’s opening six rounds will determine the final northern and southern hemisphere standings, with the inaugural Finals Weekend taking place at Twickenham from Friday 27th to Sunday 29th November.

England will be aiming to build on their summer results and secure a strong finish to the competition, with their upcoming fixtures providing an important test against three different international opponents.

Experience England’s Nations Championship Fixtures with Eventmasters

Eventmasters is delighted to offer Nations Championship hospitality packages for England’s three home fixtures at the Allianz Stadium, Twickenham this November.

Guests can enjoy premium hospitality experiences, including exclusive dining and excellent views of the action, as England welcome Australia, Japan and New Zealand to the home of English rugby.

Explore the hospitality packages available and enquire with Eventmasters to secure your place at one of this autumn’s biggest international rugby occasions.

England Nations Championship FAQs

When will England announce their Nations Championship squad?

Steve Borthwick has yet to confirm his final squad for November’s Nations Championship fixtures. His selections will determine which players feature against Australia, Japan and New Zealand.

Why is Sam Underhill unavailable for England?

Underhill suffered a ruptured biceps during Bath’s opening Premiership match against Harlequins. The injury requires surgery and is expected to keep him out of action until December or January.

Could Courtney Lawes return to the England squad?

Lawes is eligible for international selection following his return to English domestic rugby with Sale Sharks. However, his involvement will depend on Steve Borthwick’s selection decisions.

Where can I enquire about England Nations Championship hospitality?

Eventmasters offers hospitality experiences for England’s home fixtures against Australia, Japan and New Zealand at the Allianz Stadium, Twickenham. Guests can enquire directly with Eventmasters about packages and availability.