In preparation for a formidable encounter with reigning world champions South Africa, England coach Steve Borthwick has opted for strategic alterations, reinstating Freddie Steward at fullback, alongside starting roles for Jack van Poortvliet at scrumhalf, Sam Underhill at flanker, and Ollie Sleightholme on the wing. These selections signal Borthwick’s intention to utilise England’s aerial capabilities and bolster tactical resilience as he seeks to reverse the team’s current trajectory of four consecutive defeats.
Freddie Steward, who was England’s regular fullback prior to the Six Nations, replaces George Furbank in the squad—a decision driven in part by law amendments that have heightened the significance of contestable kicks. South Africa, known for their proficiency in kicking to contest, prompted Borthwick to leverage Steward’s aerial skillset, a move he believes will prove instrumental in neutralising the Springbok strategy.
“Fred’s training has been exceptional, and the South Africans lead globally in contestable kicks,” said Borthwick. “Fred’s aerial prowess is a distinctive strength, and that aspect influenced our decision.” Borthwick also expressed confidence in Van Poortvliet, known as ‘JVP’ among teammates. A player he favoured while coaching Leicester to a Premiership title, Van Poortvliet has recently demonstrated his athletic recovery and sharpness following an ankle injury that sidelined him during the World Cup. The Leicester scrumhalf takes over from Ben Spencer, whose eight-cap career with England remains winless, despite recent starts against New Zealand and Australia.
The winger position sees Ollie Sleightholme promoted after an impressive display last week, scoring two tries from the bench. He fills the slot left by Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, who remains sidelined due to concussion protocols. Sleightholme’s inclusion also prompts positional adjustments, with Tommy Freeman moving to the right wing and Tom Roebuck joining the substitutes.
Returning at openside flanker, Underhill’s selection follows the unavailability of Tom Curry, who sustained a concussion against New Zealand. Underhill, who previously enjoyed a nine-game starting streak, brings further experience and defensive capability to England’s back row.
England’s previous match-up with South Africa occurred just over a year ago in the World Cup semi-final, where the Springboks narrowly clinched a 16-15 victory. Reflecting on that encounter, Borthwick acknowledged missed opportunities but expressed optimism in England’s development since then. “We believe we’ve enhanced our game since 2023, incorporating more attacking elements and ball movement. We’re a more versatile team now and aim to challenge them differently,” he noted.
For the upcoming clash, South Africa will field a significantly rotated squad as Coach Rassie Erasmus seeks to manage player workload following a recent victory over Scotland. The Springboks, who added the Rugby Championship to their accolades earlier this year, represent a formidable challenge. Yet, Borthwick’s selection adjustments demonstrate his determination to reinvigorate the English side and arrest the team’s current run of losses.
The England team to face South Africa includes: Freddie Steward at fullback, Tommy Freeman on the right wing, Ollie Lawrence at outside centre, Henry Slade at inside centre, Ollie Sleightholme on the left wing, Marcus Smith at fly-half, Jack van Poortvliet at scrumhalf, with a forward pack led by Jamie George as captain. Ellis Genge and Will Stuart anchor the front row alongside George, with Maro Itoje and George Martin in the second row. Chandler Cunningham-South, Sam Underhill, and Ben Earl complete the back row.
England Replacements: Luke Cowan-Dickie, Fin Baxter, Dan Cole, Nick Isiekwe, Alex Dombrandt, Harry Randall, George Ford, Tom Roebuck.
