Steve Borthwick has made three changes for Saturday’s semi-final against South Africa, as England go in search of World Cup revenge against the Springboks.
Ten of England’s starting XV played against South Africa in the 2019 final, while three others who featured in the 32-12 defeat are on the bench this Saturday in Paris.
As expected, Freddie Steward replaces the injured Marcus Smith at full-back, while Joe Marler starts ahead of Ellis Genge at loosehead prop. Of the pair, Marler is regarded as the better scrummager and, against a revered South Africa pack, the scrum is likely to be a key part of the match.
Elsewhere, there is a surprise recall for Leicester Tigers lock George Martin, who starts for just the second time in the tournament. He replaces his club teammate Ollie Chessum, who drops to the bench.
South Africa have named the same side that beat France in the quarter-finals and start as favourites to reach the final. England head coach Steve Borthwick admits England must be at their best to win but insists they are ready for the challenge.
“After an excellent few days preparation in Paris, we look forward to the challenge of playing the world champions and number one ranked team in the world,” said Borthwick.
“Through this tournament the team has progressed, with the players repeatedly finding a way to win, sometimes in challenging circumstances. We will once again need to be at our very best this weekend as we face an excellent team in South Africa.
“There is no doubt the players will truly relish the challenge of knockout rugby under the lights in Paris. These players will, as they have done in every game of this tournament, give absolutely everything in the semi-final to get the result we want.
“I also know that our supporters will once again be there in their thousands, playing their part in backing the team with a full voice. To all those who have travelled and to all those lending their support and encouragement from home, I say ‘thank you’.”
England team to play South Africa: 15. Freddie Steward, 14. Jonny May, 13. Joe Marchant, 12. Manu Tuilagi, 11. Elliot Daly, 10. Owen Farrell – captain, 9. Alex Mitchell, 1. Joe Marler, 2. Jamie George, 3. Dan Cole, 4. Maro Itoje, 5. George Martin, 6. Courtney Lawes, 7. Tom Curry, 8. Ben Earl
Replacements: 16. Theo Dan, 17. Ellis Genge, 18. Kyle Sinckler, 19. Ollie Chessum, 20. Billy Vunipola, 21. Danny Care, 22. George Ford, 23. Ollie Lawrence
