England head coach Steve Borthwick has made urgent squad adjustments, recalling centres Joe Marchant and Will Joseph to address significant backline absences ahead of the November Nations Championship. The immediate inclusion of Marchant, who has not represented his country since joining Stade Francais after the 2023 Rugby World Cup, follows his summer transfer to Sale Sharks. His return provides crucial experience to a backline currently depleted by injury, offering a vital option for Borthwick as he finalizes his selection for the upcoming international window.
Borthwick scrambles for backline depth with Australia test looming
Will Joseph, meanwhile, earns a recall based on his impressive recent form in the Gallagher Premiership with Gloucester. The centre is seeking to press for a first cap since his debut on the 2022 tour to Australia, aiming to leverage his current momentum to secure a starting spot. This move underscores Borthwick’s strategy of prioritizing immediate form and availability over long-term squad stability, as the manager looks to field the strongest possible XV against a formidable Australian opposition.
The recalls come as a direct response to a string of setbacks, including the absence of Benhard Janse van Rensburg, who is sidelined following a severe head injury sustained by Bristol earlier this month. Additionally, Seb Atkinson will attend camp solely for rehabilitation purposes, as the England match against Australia is less than two weeks away. With key players unavailable, Borthwick faces a challenging task in balancing injury management with the need for tactical cohesion in the backline.
Source: The Independent Sport
