England have named an experienced side as they make 11 changes for their game against Wales this Saturday, with their opposition experimenting in the full 15 replacements they have made.
Only Freddie Steward, Joe Marchant, Will Stuart and George Martin retain their places from England’s disappointing defeat in Cardiff last Saturday with captain Owen Farrell joined by Saracens teammates Jamie George, Maro Itoje, Ben Earl, Billy Vunipola and Elliot Daly.
Like Vunipola and Daly, Harlequins prop Joe Marler will make his first appearance of the Steve Borthwick era, and he is likely to be replaced by Ellis Genge who will earn his 50th cap off the bench.
Coach Borthwick was excited about the prospect of a home warm-up match in his pre-match comments, and paid tribute to Genge for reaching his milestone.
“We are very much looking forward to our return to Twickenham Stadium on Saturday, and the opportunity to play in front of our supporters again,” he said.
“England versus Wales is always a special fixture, and we are pleased to be playing the visitors again so soon.
“We’re delighted for Ellis, who will win his 50th cap from the bench. He’s a brilliant professional, both on and off the field, and I’m sure Saturday will be a very proud moment for him and his family.”
Off the back of an impressive victory over England last time out, Wales have completely freshened up their starting line-up as they look to provide key opportunities for test experience ahead of the World Cup.
Hooker Dewi Lake captains the team, becoming the second of three captains coach Warren Gatland is planning to use during August to make his choice for the tournament.
“I’ve been really impressed with Dewi,” said Gatland.
“He’s well-respected in the group, he’s got a voice and he has confidence about himself and his own ability.
“We’re in a bit of transition, so in the back of my mind I was thinking we are building not only for the next few months but also starting to think about what we need to do with the next cycle of players going forwards towards 2027.”
Joe Roberts wins his first cap at inside centre, Taine Plumtree gets his first start at number eight and Scarlets winger Tom Rogers receives only his third start, with his previous two being in games against Argentina that were played during the 2021 Lions Tour.
On the opposite wing to Rogers, Josh Adams gets his 50th cap, and Gatland credited him for the ups and downs he has overcome in his career to date.
“I have a huge amount of respect for Josh,” said Gatland.
“He’s been through some adversity – he had to leave Wales to go to the Premiership before we could get him back – but he’s come through it and he’s a popular member of the group.
“Josh always gives 100% and I’m absolutely delighted for him.”
England: Steward, Arundell, Marchant, Lawrence, Daly, Farrell (capt), Van Poortvliet; Marler, George, Stuart, Itoje, Martin, Lawes, Earl, B Vunipola.
Replacements: Dan, Genge, Cole, Hill, Willis, Youngs, Ford, Malins
Wales: L Williams, Adams, Roberts, Tompkins, Rogers, O Williams, T Williams; G Thomas, Lake (capt), Francis, Beard, R Davies, Lydiate, Reffell, Plumtree.
Replacements: Parry, Mathias, Lewis, Tshiunza, Basham, Hardy, Biggar, K Williams.
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