England Prepares for All Blacks Test with Front-row Changes
Dunedin, New Zealand – June 29, 2023
England’s national rugby union team, under the guidance of head coach Steve Borthwick, has made two changes to the starting lineup for their upcoming clash against the mighty All Blacks at the Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin.
The notable alterations in the front-row see Joe Marler and Will Stuart being drafted into the starting XV, replacing the previous duo. Joining them is the experienced hooker and captain Jamie George, who will lead the pack alongside the lock pairing of Maro Itoje and George Martin.
The back-row remains unchanged, with blindside Chandler Cunningham-South earning another start alongside Sam Underhill and Ben Earl. In the backline, Marcus Smith maintains his position at fly-half, while Alex Mitchell continues as the scrum-half.
The midfield sees the powerful Ollie Lawrence partnering with the reliable Henry Slade, while the back three features George Furbank, Tommy Freeman, and Immanuel Feyi-Waboso.
Borthwick, who has emphasized the importance of a “tactically smart game” and “maintaining discipline,” is eager to see his England team test themselves against the formidable All Blacks on their home turf. The closed-roof Forsyth Barr Stadium is expected to create a memorable atmosphere for this highly anticipated rugby union encounter.
The matchday 23 also includes two uncapped players, Fin Baxter and Ollie Slightholme, who will be hoping to make their Test debuts. Additionally, veteran prop Dan Cole is in line to tie Jason Leonard’s record as England’s second-most capped men’s player with 114 appearances if he sees action on the day.
“As the England national rugby union team prepares to face the All Blacks, the anticipation is palpable, and the players will be eager to measure up against one of the best teams in the world. This clash promises to be a true test of the team’s resilience, skill, and determination as they seek to make their mark on the international rugby union stage.”
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