The upcoming England XV vs. France XV match promises an intriguing tactical battle, with Steve Borthwick's team seeking to build on their recent performance against Les Bleus while addressing their poor Championship record. Borthwick's squad selection hints at a strategic shift, with an emphasis on testing his wider depth chart and potentially reevaluating his gameplan.
One of the key areas of interest is the backline, where Borthwick is without several key players. Despite this, he has an opportunity to experiment with new combinations, such as pairing Max Ojomoh and Benhard Janse van Rensburg, both of whom excel when given freedom to roam and operate in different channels. This dynamic duo could provide the organic balance that Lee Blackett's attack has been lacking.
The midfield pairing of Ojomoh and Janse van Rensburg is particularly intriguing. Ojomoh, with his pace and power, can operate between the 10-12 line, while Janse van Rensburg, a skilled offloader, thrives in the 12-13 areas. This combination could be a game-changer, offering a unique blend of speed and precision.
Another potential option at inside centre is Seb Atkinson, who ended the Six Nations in the 12 shirt. However, Borthwick might be keen to give Ojomoh and Janse van Rensburg a chance to prove their worth, especially considering their versatility and ability to adapt to different positions.
At fly-half, George Ford's experience likely secures him the starting role, despite the in-form Charlie Atkinson's strong domestic campaign. Ford's leadership and tactical acumen make him a reliable choice, especially in a relatively inexperienced squad.
The scrum-half position sees Jack van Poortvliet start, with Harry Randall and Marcus Smith ready to provide impact from the bench. This 6:2 split ensures a balanced approach, allowing for strategic substitutions and fresh legs.
In the forwards, Borthwick has a plethora of options, with a Test-ready pack taking shape. Ben Earl and Tom Curry are strong contenders for the number eight and openside roles, respectively. The number six position is a key battleground, with Borthwick's potential shift towards a lock-flanker hybrid on the blindside, favoring Ollie Chessum over Ted Hill.
The back-row dynamics could be a game-changer, with Chessum's performance at the Stade de France and his likely start against the Springboks on July 4th, making him a strong contender. Charlie Ewels' leadership skills and Nick Isiekwe's versatility further strengthen the pack.
The front-row remains largely unchanged, with Joe Heyes and Jamie George's consistent performances in the Six Nations securing their spots. Beno Obano's scrummaging prowess for Bath makes him a potential loosehead starter, while Vilikesa Sela and Asher Opoku-Fordjour could be tested at tighthead and loosehead, respectively.
In summary, Borthwick's predicted England XV team showcases a thoughtful blend of experience and experimentation. By throwing the dice and testing different combinations, Borthwick aims to build a cohesive unit capable of challenging for top honors. The upcoming match against France XV will be a crucial test, revealing the true potential of this evolving England side.
