Summer Nations Series: England-Fiji match preview

Another big test for England who, after a summer of ups and downs, have one last chance to come to France with a second win in their pocket after beating Wales. However, ahead of Fiji in great shape, the winners of the Pacific Cup of Nations and the authors of a good game at home with France.

With Farrell set to be suspended for the already decisive first two World Cup matches against Argentina and Japan, Borthwick has yet to untie the debut knot. For the second time in a row, the coach selects expert George Ford, sending Smith to the bench. Next to him is a great opportunity for Alex Mitchell, who should win the competition against the veterans Youngs and Car for the starting jersey. Replacing Billy Vunipola, Borthwick chooses Ben Earle instead.

Read also: Summer series of nations: Italy-Japan, stages of the World Cup.

However, much of the line-up seems close to what could have made a debut in France against Puma. Confirmed defender Steward, Johnny May’s turn on the wing: Initially left out of the 33rd, he was reinstated with a calf injury to Watson, who will miss the entire World Cup. For now, the May draft is likely to become official next week.

The final test is also for Fiji, who truly believe in advancing to the next round: a group with Wales, Australia, Georgia and Portugal is certainly not impossible, but tonight at Twickenham the Islanders will have to prove that they can play against a great authority.

Team line-ups England – Fiji

England: 15 Freddie Steward, 14 Max Malins, 13 Ollie Lawrence, 12 Manu Tuilagi, 11 Johnny May, 10 George Ford, 9 Alex Mitchell, 8 Ben Earl, 7 Jack Willis, 6 Courtney Lowes (c), 5 Ollie Chessum, 4 Maro Itohe , 3 Dan Cole, 2 Theo Dan, 1 Ellis Genge.

Subs: 16 Jack Walker, 17 Joe Marler, 18 Will Stewart, 19 David Ribbans, 20 Lewis Ludlum, 21 Danny Care, 22 Marcus Smith, 23 Joe Marchant.

Fiji: 15 Ilaisa Droasese, 14 Selecitino Ravutaumadada, 13 Vaisea Nayakalevu (c), 12 Semi Radradra, 11 Vinaya Habosi, 10 Caleb Muntz, 9 Frank Lomani, 8 Williame Mata, 7 Lekima Tagitagivalu, 6 Albert Tuisue, 5 Te Ahivaru Chirikidweta, 4 Isoa Nasilasila, 3 Luke Taghi, 2 Sam Matavesi, 1 Eroni Mavi

Subs: 16 Zuriel Togiatama, 17 Jone Koroiduadua, 18 Samu Tawake, 19 Temo Mayanavanua, 20 Vilive Miramira, 21 Simione Curuvoli, 22 Teti Tela, 23 Kalaveti Ravvuvu

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