After recording an impressive 27-10 victory over Argentina to kick-start their Rugby World Cup campaign, England now turn their attention to Japan, for their second match in Pool D. The Brave Blossoms put out a statement of intent with an emphatic 42-12 win over Chile, to also start off their tournament on the right foot.
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Steve Borthwick has some key selection choices to make, with the back-row being the most talked about area against Argentina. In his first match back from injury since the 2023 Premiership Rugby Final, Tom Curry was sent off after less than three minutes play. The openside flanker saw red after an accidental head-to-head collision with Argentina fullback Juan Cruz Mallia. Curry will find out his suspension fate tomorrow, with his Rugby World Cup future hanging in the balance.
After serving a suspension of his own, number eight Billy Vunipola is eligible for selection against Japan. Vunipola could well return to the back-row in Curry’s absence, and move fine-form Ben Earl back across to his experienced openside flank. England captain Owen Farrell will again miss the match through suspension, in what is his fourth and final game to watch on from the side-lines. After leading his side to victory against the Pumas, George Ford is expected to once again take their reigns at fly-half against Japan.
Here are RUCK’s predictions for the England squad to face Japan, in Pool D of the Rugby World Cup this Sunday.
BACK THREE
15. Freddie Steward (Leicester Tigers)
14. Henry Arundell (Racing 92)
11. Jonny May (Gloucester Rugby)
COMPETITION:
CENTRES
13. Ollie Lawrence (Bath Rugby)
12. Manu Tuilagi (Sale Sharks)
HALFBACKS
10. George Ford (Sale Sharks)
9. Alex Mitchell (Northampton Saints)