England has made three changes to its lineup for the 2023 Rugby World Cup semi final against defending World Champions South Africa by naming Freddie Steward who will be starting at fullback replacing Marcus Smith, Joe Marler will move into the run-on XV ahead of Ellis Genge and George Martin comes in for Ollie Chessum.
Coach Steven Borthwick says there are a few factors in his selection.
He says he assess all the players, cognisant of the travel they have had especially the six-day turnaround. The England coach is now looking forward to the challenge this weekend knowing it won’t be an easy task, especially coming up against the World champs.
England Starting XV:
Joe Marler,
Jamie George,
Dan Cole,
Maro Itoje,
George Martin,
Courtney Lawes,
Tom Curry,
Ben Earl,
Alex Mitchell,
Owen Farrell ©,
Elliot Daly,
Manu Tuilagi,
Joe Marchant,
Johnny May,
Freddie Stewart.
Replacements:
Theo Dan, Ellis Genge, Kyle Sinckler, Ollie Cheesum, Billy Vunipola, Danny Care, George Ford, Ollie Lawrance.
Borthwick says they concentrate very much on themselves and it is what they have done every single week.
He adds there is always belief that is strong in the team and there are players that have performed at the very highest levels, so they can't wait for this weekend. England will take on the Springboks at 7am Sunday.
The first semi final between the All Blacks and Argentina will kick off at 7am tomorrow.
