"No Underhill or Mercer" on Steve Borthwick's England standby list - Page 2 of 3 - Ruck

“No Underhill or Mercer” on Steve Borthwick’s England standby list

#10. Fin Smith (Northampton Saints)

Possessing remarkable talent, Smith has been diligently training with the Northampton Saints in preparation for the 2023/24 Premiership season. Having been initially summoned by Borthwick earlier this summer, he would be the immediate replacement in the event of injuries to Farrell, Ford, or Marcus Smith.

#9.Ben Spencer (Bath Rugby)

Ben Spencer of Bath Rugby during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby Match between Bath Rugby and London Irish at the Recreation Ground on 21 May 2022. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK

#1. Val Rapava-Ruskin (Gloucester)

n light of Mako Vunipola’s injury, the formidable prop of Georgian origin would emerge as the subsequent top choice for Borthwick in the loosehead prop position.

#2. Jamie Blamire (Newcastle Falcons)

Although unfortunate to narrowly miss out in the direct competition for a spot against Saracens’ Theo Dan, the Falcons’ adept set-piece specialist stands poised for an immediate recall if any of the hookers were to sustain an injury.

Jamie Blamire of England during the Summer Nations Series Rugby match between Wales and England at Principality Stadium on August 5, 2023 in Cardiff, Wales. Photo: Phil Mingo/PPAUK

#3. Joe Heyes (Leicester Tigers)

Heyes is another old lieutenant of Borthwick, positioning him as a clear contender for the England head coach should Cole, Sinckler, or Stuart encounter any injuries.

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