George Ford has been named the fly-half for England’s opening autumn Test against Australia, scheduled for Saturday at Allianz Stadium. Finn Smith of Northampton has been moved to the bench, while Marcus Smith from Harlequins has been omitted from the 23-man squad.
In a strategic shift, Tommy Freeman will move from the right wing to outside center, teaming up with fellow Northampton player Fraser Dingwall. Scrum-half Alex Mitchell expressed confidence in Freeman’s versatility, stating, “He will be just as effective at 13 as he is on the wing… He’s got the speed, the power, the height,” highlighting Freeman’s potential to influence the game from his new role.
Dingwall, 26, has collaborated with Freeman in the midfield during England’s notable Six Nations triumph over Wales earlier this year. Their inclusion comes despite stiff competition from form players like Henry Slade of Exeter Chiefs and Ollie Lawrence, who is making a comeback after recovering from a ruptured Achilles.
On the wings, Sale’s Tom Roebuck has secured the right position, while Immanuel Feyi-Waboso takes the left. Roebuck has proven reliability, scoring twice in the previous Test against Argentina. Although Feyi-Waboso missed recent matches due to suspension, he has had a strong season with seven tries.
Freddie Steward will step in as full-back, a shift from Marcus Smith, who featured in earlier Six Nations games. Head coach Steve Borthwick’s selection reflects the performances seen during summer tests, particularly Steward’s success against Argentina.
The forward pack will feature Bath flankers Guy Pepper and Sam Underhill, alongside Ben Earl of Saracens at number eight. Sale hooker Luke Cowan-Dickie is set to earn his 50th cap from the bench, with team-mate Tom Curry possibly making his season debut as well.
England’s lineup to face Australia includes: Steward; Roebuck, Freeman, Dingwall, Feyi-Waboso; Ford, Mitchell; Baxter, George, Heyes, Itoje (captain), Chessum, Pepper, Underhill, Earl. The replacements consist of Cowan-Dickie and others.
With a blend of emerging talents and seasoned players, England aims to generate momentum as they prepare to take on a challenging Australian team, sparking enthusiasm among fans for the impending showdown.