England face Wales on Saturday in front of what is expected to be a packed-out Principality Stadium in the first of both side's World Cup warm-up matches. The Wales Vs England rivalry is one of the most anticipated in world rugby and has given us some cracking games in the past.
The build-up to this weekend's match is in fine flow, with Steve Borthwick just announcing his starting team to begin the World Cup Summer Nations Series.
“England versus Wales in Cardiff is always an exciting and keenly contested fixture,” said Borthwick.
“I am sure this Saturday will be no different as a tremendous first Test match of the Summer Nations Series.
“We have been impressed with how the whole squad has applied itself both on and off the field over this training camp. We are now looking forward to returning to Test match rugby as we continue our preparations for the Rugby World Cup in France.”
Ellis Genge takes the captaincy, as he lines up in the front row alongside try-scoring machine Jamie Blamire and long-term England player Will Stuart. David Ribbans and George Martin make up a second-row partnership as the likes of Maro Itoje and Courtney Lawes are rested. The back row of Lewis Ludlum, Alex Dombrandt, and Tom Pearson gives the three a good opportunity to showcase their talents as they look to cement their place on the plane to France.
The halfback combination of Danny Care and Marcus Smith is likely to thrill fans of club side Harlequins as the dynamic duo look to recreate their wonderful chemistry on the world stage. The Guy Porter and Joe Marchant centre combination is an interesting call as their skill sets provide England with completely different options to the Tuilagi/Lawrence midfield that many fans have been calling for.
Wingers Joe Cokanasiga and Max Malins could not be more polar opposites in terms of build, but they both have the stellar try scoring ability in their repertoires, a fascinating selection as both of these players could really boost their way up the pecking order with a good performance.
Freddie Steward at fullback is one of the only positions in the side that seems pretty much nailed on for the World Cup. He will be a vital cog in the England machine if they are to gain victory on Saturday.
The bench starts with a very competent front row thanks to 2019 World Cup finalist Kyle Sinckler adding his experience alongside the younger Bevan Rodd and Theo Dan.
Jonny Hill and Tom Willis make up the remainder of the scrum replacements, while Jack van Poortvliet will be ready to come on and instruct the forwards towards the end of the game.
Experienced duo of George Ford and Henry Slade sit as back replacements, able to come on and steady the England ship should they need to.
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