Fiji v England: Henry Slade returns to England starting line-up
BBC • • sports
Key Points:
- Centre Henry Slade has been recalled to England's starting line-up for the match against Fiji, aiming to halt a run of five consecutive Test defeats under coach Steve Borthwick.
- Slade, who was sidelined during the Six Nations but finished the domestic season strongly with Exeter, replaces Tommy Freeman at outside centre, allowing Freeman to return to his usual wing position.
- Guy Pepper replaces Tom Curry at openside flanker, and three uncapped players—Benhard Janse van Rensburg, Noah Caluori, and George Kloska—are set to make their Test debuts from the bench.
- England's recent form has been poor, including a heavy defeat to South Africa and a disappointing Six Nations campaign with losses to Scotland, Ireland, Italy, and France.
- Despite the struggles, head coach Borthwick retains support from the Rugby Football Union through to the 2027 Rugby World Cup, but the team's performance against Fiji and upcoming matches will be crucial.
