England Selections Spark Excitement Ahead of US Rugby Clash

England’s rugby team has made significant changes ahead of their final summer tour match against the United States in Washington DC on July 1, 2023. Coach Steve Borthwick has included winger Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, who returns from suspension, while also set to debut as many as six players in a squad reshuffled due to the absence of several regulars participating with the British & Irish Lions in Australia.

New Faces in England’s Line-Up

Feyi-Waboso’s return comes after he missed England’s back-to-back victories over Argentina last month. He received a suspension while playing for an England XV against the France XV, marking his first appearance since December due to injury. Borthwick’s selection reflects a commitment to building depth in the squad, as he aims to integrate new talent while maintaining performance standards.

Among the debutants are fullback Joe Carpenter, centre Max Ojomoh, and lock Arthur Clark, who will start the match. Additionally, hooker Gabriel Oghre, flyhalf Charlie Atkinson, and centre Oscar Beard are expected to make their first appearances off the bench. Borthwick emphasized the positive atmosphere within the squad: “There’s been a great spirit in the squad throughout this tour. The players have worked hard for each other and pushed standards every day,” he stated.

Expectations for the Match

With George Ford captaining the side, the team will feature a new half-back pairing with Jack van Poortvliet, who was instrumental in securing a dramatic win against Argentina with a last-minute try in their previous match. Ford, who has amassed 101 caps, brings experience to a side lacking many key players. His cap count surpasses that of the entire starting XV combined, which totals 96.

The front row will consist of Curtis Langdon at hooker, flanked by props Bevan Rodd and Asher Opoku-Fordjour. The second row features Alex Coles alongside Clark, while Alex Dombrandt will play at number eight, supported by flankers Chandler Cunningham-South and Guy Pepper. The match against the United States marks just the second time England has played on American soil since their last visit in 2001, and they have maintained a perfect record against the USA, winning all seven previous encounters.

As the team prepares for this important fixture, the focus remains on building cohesion and delivering a performance that resonates with supporters. “Those selected this weekend have earned their chance through their effort and attitude,” Borthwick remarked, highlighting the importance of this match as a stepping stone for the future of England Rugby.

England’s team for the match is as follows: 15–Joe Carpenter, 14–Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, 13–Luke Northmore, 12–Max Ojomoh, 11–Cadan Murley, 10–George Ford (captain), 9–Jack van Poortvliet, 8–Alex Dombrandt, 7–Guy Pepper, 6–Chandler Cunningham-South, 5–Arthur Clark, 4–Alex Coles, 3–Asher Opoku-Fordjour, 2–Curtis Langdon, 1–Bevan Rodd. The replacements include 16–Gabriel Oghre, 17–Fin Baxter, 18–Trevor Davison, 19–Ted Hill, 20–Ben Curry, 21–Harry Randall, 22–Charlie Atkinson, 23–Oscar Beard.