A bold move in the Six Nations: England's team shake-up for Italy clash.
England's Six Nations campaign takes an unexpected turn as Steve Borthwick makes a dramatic overhaul to his squad, with a whopping nine changes to the starting lineup for their match against Italy in Rome. This move comes after back-to-back defeats against Scotland and Ireland, leaving England out of the title race.
But here's where it gets controversial...
Borthwick has opted for a complete reshuffle, with a new-look backline featuring Fin Smith, who makes his first start since the autumn, replacing George Ford at fly-half. Tommy Freeman, a versatile player, moves from wing to outside centre, showcasing his adaptability. Rising star Henry Pollock, who made his first start against Ireland, finds himself back on the bench.
And this is the part most people miss...
The changes are not limited to the backs; the forward pack also sees a significant shake-up. Maro Itoje will captain the team, and Ben Earl, an important leader, will earn his 50th cap for England.
England's record against Italy is impressive, with a 100% win rate in their previous 32 encounters. However, Italy, under Gonzalo Quesada, has fielded their strongest team since joining the Six Nations, adding an element of uncertainty to the match.
The pressure is on Borthwick, especially with a challenging trip to Paris to face France looming.
A complete overhaul:
Borthwick has gone all out, making radical changes to the team that faced Ireland. The backline is entirely different, with Freeman being the sole survivor, but in a new position. The starting XV against Ireland has been completely revamped, with Freddie Steward, Fraser Dingwall, and Henry Arundell among those missing out.
Almost unprecedented:
James Cole from Sky Sports comments, "Steve Borthwick has torn up the script. This is highly unusual, with 12 changes in total - nine personnel and three positional. It's a sign of the importance he places on this game."
So, will this be a tactical masterstroke or a desperate move? Only the result in Rome will tell.
England's starting XV against Italy:
15. Elliot Daly, 14. Tom Roebuck, 13. Tommy Freeman, 12. Seb Atkinson, 11. Cadan Murley, 10. Fin Smith, 9. Ben Spencer, 1. Ellis Genge, 2. Jamie George, 3. Joe Heyes, 4. Maro Itoje (c), 5. Alex Coles, 6. Guy Pepper, 7. Tom Curry, 8. Ben Earl.
Replacements: 16. Luke Cowan-Dickie, 17. Bevan Rodd, 18. Trevor Davison, 19. Ollie Chessum, 20. Sam Underhill, 21. Henry Pollock, 22. Jack van Poortvliet, 23. Marcus Smith.
What do you think of Borthwick's bold strategy? Is it a risky move or a necessary shake-up? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
