As the final round of the 2025 Six Nations Championship approaches, Steve Borthwick has opted for several changes to his starting XV ahead of the decisive encounter with Wales. Despite a dominant victory over Italy in the previous round, the England coach has chosen to make key adjustments, notably the inclusion of Tom Roebuck and repositioning several players. This match in Cardiff, marking the 143rd meeting between the two nations, could prove crucial in the race for the title, as England must hope for a slip-up from France to secure the championship.
Strategic Changes by Steve Borthwick.
With the final fixture of the Six Nations against Wales approaching, Borthwick has implemented a series of significant changes to his team, despite securing a comfortable win over Italy. These adjustments are clearly intended to address weaknesses in the squad and ensure a bonus-point victory, giving England a fighting chance at the title, while awaiting any slip from France in their match against Scotland.
The Impact of Ollie Lawrence’s Absence.
One of the most notable changes to the team comes in the form of Ollie Lawrence’s injury. The centre, a key figure in England’s midfield, has been ruled out with an Achilles tendon issue, forcing Borthwick to reshuffle his midfield options. In a tactical switch, Tommy Freeman takes Lawrence’s place at centre, alongside Fraser Dingwall, his Northampton teammate. This alteration introduces a new dynamic to England’s attacking play. Freeman, usually a winger, brings a fresh perspective to the role and could provide an exciting option to break through the Welsh defence, creating space for England’s backs.
The Wings: A New Setup to Maximise Attack.
Along with the shift in the centre, Borthwick has opted to rejig his wing positions. Tom Roebuck, a young talent making his first start in the Six Nations, will occupy the right wing. This bold yet promising decision could inject fresh energy into England’s attack. Despite lacking international experience, Roebuck has impressed with Sale Sharks, showing excellent pace and agility. His speed could be a key asset against a Welsh defence that may be vulnerable to pressure. Meanwhile, Elliot Daly, who played full-back in the previous match against Italy, is now positioned on the left wing. This switch could prove crucial in utilising Daly’s destructive running ability on the wing, while also maintaining his kicking game, which will be essential during transitional phases.
Marcus Smith: Returning at Full-Back, A Stronger Back Row to Contain the Welsh
To compensate for Daly’s move to the wing, Borthwick has brought Marcus Smith back into the starting XV at full-back, after he was relegated to the bench against Italy. This marks a return to a position where Smith has previously excelled, despite occasional defensive lapses. His presence at full-back offers England a major weapon in terms of attacking play. Smith will be the focal point of distribution from the back, using his vision and excellent kicking game to unlock the Welsh defence.
In another key tactical move, Borthwick has opted to strengthen the back row. Facing a Welsh side that will be eager to disrupt England’s rhythm, Borthwick has opted to add extra intensity and power in this area. Tom Willis, who started in the previous match, makes way for Ben Curry. This change provides England with a more robust platform to challenge the Welsh forwards, disrupt their ball carriers, and offer greater support in attacking phases. The back row will play a pivotal role in neutralising Welsh attacks and ensuring a solid base for ball distribution from the rucks, while also covering as much ground as possible to launch counter-attacks from key positions.
Henry Pollock’s First Appearance in the England Squad.
Finally, to cap off this reshuffle, Borthwick has included Henry Pollock in the matchday squad, one of the brightest young talents in English rugby. The 20-year-old flanker, who plays for Northampton, was part of the England U20 team that claimed the World Championship title and was a standout performer throughout the campaign, which also saw them, despite the win, narrowly miss out on the Grand Slam in the U20 Six Nations. Known for his aggression, speed, and ball-handling skills, Pollock has quickly become a symbol of the new wave of English rugby talent. Having been called up to several training camps by Borthwick during the tournament, this will be Pollock’s first time making the matchday squad, and many will be eager to see how he performs on the international stage.
Starting XV :
M. Smith – Daly, Freeman, Dingwall, Roebuck – F. Smith, Mitchell – B. Curry, Earl, T. Curry – Chessum, Itoje (cap.) – Stuart, Cowan-Dickie, Genge.
Substitutes :
Baxter, George, Heyes, Ford, Van Poortvliet, T. Willis, Cunningham-South, Pollock.
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