DOES BORTHWICK SWING THE AXE? | SELECTING ENGLAND'S 6N SQUAD?

It's not long now until the 6 Nations Squads will start to be announced. Of all of the countries, England have more selection question marks than any. A disappointing 2024 and no shortage of potential talent - does that mean the axe needs to swing? Is new blood needed? OR are things on track with a bit of tinkering.

[@joemartin4751]

A very good 23. Only hesitation would be not starting Underhill. Delighted to see Hendy in your squad. There’ll be a riot if Tom Willis isn’t picked by Borthwick.

[@touchingthecloth]

Never seen a pre 6 nations, where a player should be so odds on to start. Tom Willis!

[@speak_your_truth.]

​@@touchingtheclothOdds according to who?

[@touchingthecloth]

@@speak_your_truth. anybody watching the Prem this season

[@leecheetham5889]

I think Pollock would make an immediate impact .

[@touchingthecloth]

@@leecheetham5889 agreed

[@AndrewAW-w2l]

As a South African following the premiership- England do not seem to have a talent problem, I think their strength is similar to Boks as in many positions no clear A/B choice - challenge is the coaching ticket needs to get creative and ensure open and honest culture ie. Players needs to know where they stand and reasons for selecting/ rotating players- this is how they will build depth needed for a World Cup campaign. Also age profile is favourable- 2031 could be a vintage year if you consider likes Pollock, Cunningham-South, Finn Smith, Baxter etc.

[@knoll9812]

Agree Nothing wrong with England u20 lDt three years

[@samarnold8403]

From a Sarries fan, re balance of Willis and Earl… regardless numbers on their backs, Ben Earl packs down at 8 in scrum, 7 at lineout (at back) and Willis drops into the backfield on kick chase like Billy V used to, they make use of having two 8s and playing to each one’s strength. Willis is a monster in around the ruck with pick and goes in the tight but also in the wide channels on counter attack or third phase attacks, get both on the ball as much as possible! Neither are out and out 8s or 7 really it’s great to see using both of their strengths in hybrid roles.

[@nickm8494]

Good choices, Tim. Cherries coach George Skivington was showing some caution with regards to Afo Fasogbon moving into senior internationals, suggesting he needed more time at Prem and European level before heading into the bright lights. I think his injury has come at a good time, taking the pressure off him a little. A future pairing with Asher Opoku-Fordjour looks very promising for the scrum... Great call with Seb Atkinson, he's become a crucial part of Gloucester's new attacking style, one of those players with a fantastic work rate and good rugby brain, who never tries to hog the limelight. Finally, my regular shout for the overlooked Ollie Thorley, despite him being out injured for the rest of the season! Cheers

[@jonwright4719]

Tim, thank you for the great thoughtful content and trying to get a Glaws player in the squad but noto going to happen unless injuries mean a call up for Fas against the Italian or Welsh boys- agree with your logic- hope SB sees the value in the developing of younger players like Atko & Hendy- could be a Grand Slam year with the fixtures the way they are- could be a wooden spoon if SB sticks with the old plan- really enjoying the Premiership and hope Obano and Hill get their chances this 6Nations (from a Glos supporter) they deserve it- I thought the 6/2 split was a good idea for Ireland but I guess Daly will be still in SB's mind as Furbank is injured and experience is key in 6Nations. Come on ENgland- at least 1 Ouillis in the squad.

[@MrEazeee]

"It's the hope that kills you" - No truer words can be felt as a Scotland fan... Great content as always Tim, looking forward to your Six Nations content!

[@888young2]

When you say ‘Scotland’ fan, really you mean ‘bunch of blokes from around the world who weren’t good enough to play for their home nation so went to a lesser nation’ fan

[@FG-ul6yi]

@@888young2 Cue the racism, we have like 4 residencies whereas the rest are Scottish and British. Jog on.

[@robertwhite9621]

@@888young2 If we run with your "logic", our "bunch of blokes" have beaten England 4 years in a row. If our guys aren't good enough to play for their home nations, how shit are the English?

[@888young2]

@@FG-ul6yi not really racism because at no point did I mention anything to do with race. I'm afraid you are also mistaken regarding the number of foreign nationals playing for Scotland. In the November test squad there were 18 foreign nationals. Also as a side note, learn to have a bit of a laugh. No need to be offended. Life will seem a lot brighter if you don’t constantly victimise yourself and others.

[@FG-ul6yi]

@888young2 Nope, only people on residency are Duhan, Tom Jordan, and Schoeman. The rest either grew up in Scotland/UK, or have relatives. You can't count someone as growing up in England 'foreign born'. Nonsense

[@MrFubber]

Tom Willis is an irresistible selection. Agree about Ted Hill too. That is a very balanced back row selection.

[@mikegray8776]

Tim, Agree with ALL your squad choices - UNTIL you get to the Back5 ! Slade has nothing left to offer - Great club servant, but too slow/ too powerless for Internationals. Needs to be Lawrence/ Freeman or Lawrence/Steward. Wingers (without Feyi-W) should be from Sleights, Ibitoye, Murley (plus Hendy as utility) FullBacks (without Furbank) Hendy against a running opposition, Steward only against a kicking side, (plus Marcus for Q4 impact). Plus maybe Carpenter as 3rd choice starter? Your 6 back row guys are awesome, but Tom Curry is maybe not quite ready yet.

[@henrybullock4514]

I like that Atkinson shout. Probably been the form 12 in the Premiership this year. A good distributor but also really fronts up in defence.

[@andrewcrooke3716]

Agree with most of this apart from Steward. The EverGiven container ship turned in the Suez quicker than he can. And Murley, like many wingers, run straiht past him

[@ethanhurley-love5301]

Great takes as always. Can't argue with the squad selection. Willis and Hill have to be involved, and Marcus Smith needs to be playing 80 mins, either dropping to 15 with Fin Smith off the bench, or the 6-2 split. With the exciting talent on offer, the players can't keep taking the blame, I think its make or break for Borthwick now, these marginal losses need to start going England's way. 🙏

[@EdLo3]

Hendy is a potential starter for me. A very balanced 15 and performed brilliantly in last years prem final. Has the pace and temperment to succeed at international level. In which case, I would have Fin Smith over Ford to strengthen the Saints spine in the second half. Oscar Beard or Northmore both need another shot I think. Beard would perhaps be better as a straight swap for Slade. Will Chessum be fit in time for the 6Ns? Underhill has to get an EPS contract as well. Sign him up quick!!

[@notmcgreo764]

Tim reminds me of steve borthwick selection...a tiny bit. He goes with players he trusts rather than out and out form and Hendy is the best 15 in the prem atm js

[@EdLo3]

@notmcgreo764 yep! Like Eddie it takes too long for him to integrate form players. We were all crying out for Mitchell and look what happens when he finally makes it. Equally, if Tom Willis isn't in the squad there is something seriously wrong.

[@neilcroasdell5467]

Great analysis,Tim. You've nailed it again.

[@dcmj3798]

I think Seb Atkinson is wildly underrated, he has incredible distribution skills.

[@-mossy4834]

Great video. Good cases for all the players. I just can’t see borthwick making the big decisions to drop favourites.

[@jimbo021075]

Agree on Dan Cole but would like to see him still involved in a coaching hybrid role… he has so much knowledge and street smarts to share as you say he could still do a job in injury circumstances. - tigers fan

[@Alex-qc1mt]

Impressed with Beard as an all-rounder. He is rapid, hits hard, powerful in the carry, elusive and distributes well. He really could be elite at 13 and has to be pushing for a spot. Think he would dovetail well with Lawrence who is a guaranteed starter. Like Atkinson as a shout, though Northmore playing regularly with Beard means some Quins fireworks for tackling alongside Smith (and I would have Porter in at some point at SH). Equally Hendy and Sleightholme is a combination you want alongside Freeman. Can't overlook club dynamics but if we resort to kicking constantly, then it's not going to work. Ford not good enough to be utility back, but no way he is a better all round option than Fin Smith. What do you think of club relationships for England - and do they go out the window if the coaching/system is very different?

[@TJB81]

Love the channel. Pretty much agree with everything you say here. Sam Underhill is one of the very few test match animals England have and surely has to start though. Earl and CCS off the bench could be so destructive. The bench was awful in Autumn and this may be a game changer. I thought Randall’s cameos in the Autumn were poor and I’d have Spencer or Quirke battling for that spot. Daly was apparently pencilled to start v Boks in Autumn and I wouldn’t be surprised to see him feature.

[@nigeljones8727]

@@TJB81 yup I watched him off the bench against Northampton and if Bath would have won he would have been man of the match

[@guyveegee]

Strong bench would be so exciting to see

[@kierontreas5971]

Babe, wake up. New EC video just dropped 🎉

[@zwet4269]

Fin Smith and Alex Mitchell works so well for the Saints

[@notmcgreo764]

Would like to see fin get a start

[@joedennehy386]

Club rugby is almost irrelevant

[@markexley]

@@joedennehy386Mitchell is the best 9 by some distance.

[@remiglanfield2615]

Very good team, but as an Exeter Lad. I would love to see Greg Fisilau and/or Ethan Roots in the back row.

[@StanWilks]

Selection speculation? It's that time of year, Tim. Looking forward to your 6N coverage!

[@davidhead9727]

Great review Tim. Like the point of change and getting a more dynamic bench. Its seemed not to match other top nations previously Willis changes the dynamic and I too see Ben as a really good bench impact or going to 7 from the start. It's building nicely, to gradually bring in layers of options and play to our strengths in the back row over 80 minutes. Do like the option of Marcus at 15 and Freddy has been playing so well and is an attacking force if we can get the right structures. Go for it boys and we support you always ❤

[@Gilescowdemdem]

Really can't argue with that 23, reinforces rhe importance of chessum to cover lock and 6 which allows rhe impact of CCS and Underhill off the bench. I'd love to see Hendy but think he needs some more time but he certainly fills that Furbank type role.

[@jim9301]

Well reasoned squad. Lack of talent certainly isn't going to be our problem. Just the way they setup and the mindset they play with. Bring it on though - can't wait for 6N season!

[@darthmaul408]

I’m not sure if you’ve seen the Bath vs Clermont game Tim, but Max Ojomah was absolutely superb at 12. Picking him means an actual club combination at 12-13 and Lawrence gets to play his best position of 13. Now I’m an Exeter Chiefs fan, so I’m a huge Henry Slade fan, but we’ve seen the Slade/Lawrence partnership a few times now and it just doesn’t click regularly enough for me. When squads have previously been announced there have been specific mentions of Ojomah not being considered due to injury etc. so the fact he gets mentioned shows that Borthwick has his eye on him.

[@johnrichards4097]

Great analysis as usual. Quickly becoming the best on the web. I like the way you handled the Dombrandt issue. He really isn’t a test match player but great for QUINS. I would also like to see Pollock in the squad I think he is one for the future and would put him in instead of Ben Curry whose story is similar to Dombrandt. In terms of second row we are so lucky to have Itoje he is a 90 minute player! So him and Martin and Chesum to start with Willis at 8. Underhill to start. That’s a big pack. With pace to come off the bench. I think Steward may surprise people with a bit more pace but still looks a bit easy to beat 1 on 1. I like Marcus for the 80 and let’s see Hendry as he looks like he can open some gaps. Thanks for that.

[@jacostrauss4953]

Good afternoon Tim! Very good squad and starting 23. I'm also of the opinion that England are definitely in with a chance for the 6 Nations this year. The team performed well in November, and if they can sew up their defence, they should do very well. Whether they will have enough to beat Ireland and France remains to be seen. If not, they will definitely run them very close. They are definitely in with a shout to beat Scotland, and on current form, will beat Wales and Italy. Good luck to your team!

[@johnwakley7165]

Mad that 7 years ago England had probably the worst back row selection of all the home nations, now they arguably have the best 😮

[@ericdavison6186]

yes,,lets not forget Ethan Roots, who shone in the 2024 6 nations.

[@speak_your_truth.]

Roots is on fire ATM.

[@YannBACCON]

I see you did not bring up Jacques Houillisse, the French guy playing for Toulouse...

[@EggchasersRugby]

😂😂😂

[@robertlayte61]

It's boring that's why . No point

[@marco-dn7kd]

Or the other french guy playing prop for Toulon, Karl Saint-Clair

[@YannBACCON]

@@marco-dn7kd A bit on the older side isn't he? Soon to retire in his hometown in the Pyrénées...

[@marco-dn7kd]

@@YannBACCON he has invested to get closer to his friend Jacques Ouilisse playing for Toulouse!? Maybe he got confused between Toulon and Toulouse ! ?

[@lawrenceriekstins2157]

Totally agree about Ollie Chessum. He was on the best form I’ve seen so far before he got injured. Leicester’s line out is no where near as good without him and if he keeps this form up when he returns he could easily be England’s best lock!

[@jameshampshire7345]

In this video lots I agree with. But what you have highlighted it just how hard Steve Borthwick's is. Can't wait for the sux nation

[@paulaustin7940]

As England has pretty deep strength in depth in the back row, Alfie Barbeary needs to start playing at hooker again. I'd love to see a world cup 2027 pack of :1 Opoku-Fordjour, 2 Barbeary, 3 Fasogbon, 4 Martin, 5 Kpoku, 6 Hill, 7 J Willis, 8 Earl. Subs Oghre Baxter Sela Chessum Willis T

[@robertwhite9621]

Great video Tim - England are a dark horse for this tourney imo. I've gotten flak for saying so, but the talent of their players in undeniable

[@AllInTheGame01]

Would like to see Asher Opoku-Fordjour, Trevor Davison, Beno Obano, Gabriel Oghre, Jamie Blamire, Tom Willis, Tom Pearson, Harry Randall, Oscar Beard & Cadan Murley all in the Squad.

[@EggchasersRugby]

7/10 not bad - we agree on many

[@AllInTheGame01]

@@EggchasersRugby 👍

[@speak_your_truth.]

Beard has no chance, his buddy Northmore might get a run though.

[@AllInTheGame01]

@@speak_your_truth. And a few days later, Beard is named in the squad with Northmore nowhere to be found :)

[@speak_your_truth.]

@@AllInTheGame01 Surprised at that but well done Beard 👍 As a Scotsman I'm happy that Borthwick's picked in my view crap options at 12. Dingwall, Slade and Lawrence. Don't think many English fans will be be happy with those 3, none of which have delivered in that position. Huwipolotu will tear them to shreds again at Twickenham. Also the penalty machine Itoji as captain, oh dear. Good luck to him building rapport with refs 🤭 Spencer being binned and Tom Curry being selected when Henry Pollock is playing out his skin is typical of Borthwick. I notice that you only had a 50% strike rate so I wouldn't be crowing too loudly 😂

[@seafantasys]

As we have seen before with previous England manager with the array of talent we have can Bortwick get the best out of them is the key quetion for me and produce a winning team

[@chrissilovsky]

Got to say, I pretty much exclusively watch your squad videos compared to anyone else’s because there’s such a positive vibe around it, gets me excited for the Six Nations! I sometimes feel so down after watching other content that’s all doom and gloom 😂

[@DavidShort-q1d]

Nice squad Tim well balanced and lots of cover in both the forwards and backs with power and pace through out

[@tristenwilmot4144]

I am not sold on Randall, spencer would be my choice for the match day squad

[@jim9301]

That would be my only definite change on that suggested 23. Not sure about that back row balance either, but that is splitting hairs... Definitely do agree with Willis at 8.

[@RickTransit]

This is a really great analysis and I agree with almost everything you say. I'd just like to throw a couple more names into the mix, simply because they've already done great things for England but seem to have been forgotten for some reason. The first is Jamie Blamire - unfortunately for him we've already got plenty of very good hookers and he plays for a side that's at the bottom of the Premiership, but he's a massive talent and for me is easily up there with Theo Dan. The second is Raffi Quirke, who's had a horrendous run of injuries but at his best has a bit of magic about him that puts him ahead of Spencer, Randall or JVP in my opinion.

[@TheSward94]

I agree with most. It’s a good squad, I agree that if we have Slade or Furbank in the squad we could go for a 6-2 split with either of them switching to fly half. I personally think we need to start playing Lawrence at 13. It’s where he plays for bath. It’s his preferred position and I can’t see anyone taking a shirt off him for years. I would lock Lawrence in at 13 and experiment with the 12 shirt. I would give Northmore or Ojomoh a shot. With an option for Slade or Freeman to be a good solid utility back off the bench

[@JoshuaBrunell]

Love your squad Tim. Feel like Rodd deserves Baxter’s spot. Happy with Heyes or Davison as 3rd choice tighthead. Pollock, Pearson and Pepper are going to be great for the A squad. Quirke is close to Randall’s spot especially as he has a good relationship with Ford. Northmore and Beard as a partnership are probably about equal to Atkinson and Lozowski separately. Carpenter the next man in if it’s a 37 man squad.

[@notmcgreo764]

I don't see Baxter's potential

[@CharlieMain-q9y]

Totally agree on the pack and the forwards on the bench in the 23 as I remember In November the Irish line out did not function to their normal high standards and having Chessum at 6 may help us disrupt their lineout and if we are able to nick their ball it may be crucial . Paul O.Connell may have sorted the lineout but we live in hope !!! In the backs I hope SB will start Finn at 10 with Marcus at 15 - whilst Steward catches everything the Irish will know that Marcus is capable of running the ball back with interest ( like Furbank did in 24 ) however if it is a terrible day then Steward starts for me

[@9Charcot]

Some good calls Tim. Nice and balanced and not an over reaction. I've read many columns and commenters calling for whole sale changes but that would be a step too far and probably result in even more disjointed performances. As you call out from November England really just need to make some significant structural improvements in their defence and select a bench that's going to come on with a bang rather than a whimper!! I reckon Underhill, Chessum will start at 7&6 and then it will be a choice between Earl and Willis as to who starts and who rides the bench. Either work for me but I reckon SB will bring Willis from the bench for his 1st cap.

[@henrybullock4514]

I’d bring Joe Heyes in. Leicester’s scrum has been exceptional this season. A lot of that will be down to Nicky Smith and Julian Montoya, but to me it seems like Heyes is maturing into an international Tighthead.

[@EggchasersRugby]

He may have been picked before he was really ready in years gone by. Agree that he looks to be maturing.

[@henrybullock4514]

@ yeah that’s what I think. Although Davison was a rock for Saints last season and definitely deserves a spot too.

[@philipgarnett-clarke7493]

I agree with you give some up and coming players a game. Phil

[@diplo3985]

Very good video with some great points! Only true argument I would say is Underhill has to start, he is ruthless and intense which England need. Earl been doing very well at 8 so arguably keep him there, don’t change what’s not broken. Aside from that I agree with the selections and starting team. Very good :)

[@speak_your_truth.]

Earl has been very average over the past 6 months while Willis has been tearing up trees. Pick the better player.

[@thomaseskenazi2013]

I see the Jacques Houilisse jokes are already there! Anyways Tim, I have to admit that Englad France at Twickenham is really the game I fear the most for us froggies. We tend to have a slow -quite the euphemism- start of 6N on the last years, and England has show constant and consistant progress all trourugh 2024. So, I concur, England definitely has the capacity to do awesome this year.

[@benhaslam8728]

I feel Ben Curry should be in the 23 against Ireland (tbf I dont know who would leave the squad) he's been immense this season and consistently the best player for sale

[@simont531]

I think you are spot on with a lot of choices. For me I’m not sure we need both the Curry brothers. Im not sure I agree with you on 10 either. I don’t think our trio is the envy of any other top 7 rugby nation at present - Marcus Smith is the only one who would worry other teams if he’s selected because of his running game. He is still developing his 80 minute game management but I personally wouldn’t keep defaulting to George Ford at 50-60mins I’d let Smith go longer for his development. I think with eyes on the next WC it may be time to drop Ford and focus on the next generation.

[@JoeyJoeJoex]

Great squad selection. Love it. It’s boom or bust time for Borthwick, and hopefully that means he’ll be taking a few more ‘creative’ and in-form selection risks. But I’ll believe it when I see it! (All aboard the Ted Hill hype train, only to see he hasn’t been selected yet again!!)

[@LittleBigMediaCo]

Tim, how about for the 6 Nations squads you do a 'likely 23 selection' and side-by-side that with a 'no restrictions 23' that includes all those players who are currently excluded because of where they play their rugby. For extra fun ... how about a side-by-side comparison with a 'no selection restrictions (homegrown born / raised only) 23' for each of the 6 teams, and try get a feeling for how that might potentially change the dynamic and pecking order in the 6 nations. At a glance, I'd suggest that Ireland, France, Scotland and Italy would all come back towards the pack without their mercenaries, Wales would face far less of a deficit, and England would be significantly stronger in relation to some of those teams.

[@fawltyoldboybasil.2178]

'Their Mercenaries'!!?? What a colorful piece of terminology to use as an excuse for past failings. I fear though that currently Wales would need considerably more than just that to return to genuine competitiveness

[@LittleBigMediaCo]

@@fawltyoldboybasil.2178 Basic English Basil ... you have a different word for 'someone who sells his services to go into battle for someone else'? You should read better too Mr Fawlty ... I never claimed that Wales would return to genuine competitiveness in this scenario ... I claimed they would be more competitive RELATIVE to the other teams. Do you really want to claim that their score difference vs Ireland, Scotland, France or Italy wouldn't be any different if the mercenaries were removed from those squads and especially matchday 23?

[@fawltyoldboybasil.2178]

@@LittleBigMediaCo Bit sensitive eh? Don't like being challenged about the terminology you use, apparently. Regarding your 'assertions' about Wales - I notice you have omitted England from your speculations on the list of nations results vs Wales. Curious - did you have some reluctance to include it? The evidence of the last 5 years pertaining directly to Wales Rugby does not support your 'at a glance' claim.

[@LittleBigMediaCo]

@@fawltyoldboybasil.2178 Sensitive? Let me remind you that YOU'RE the one triggered by my terminology. And you have failed to provide any synonym for my correct use of "mercenaries", suggesting you're not very well educated, or just not smart enough ... which is supported by your complete lack of comprehension of my comments. The reason I excluded England from any comparison, is because England don't have any "mercenaries" they would need to exclude, so it's moot. I realise that is very difficult for you to follow, since the logic part of your comprehension seems to have been completely replaced by the butthurt part ... probably because your team would be half of what it currently is, minus it's mercenaries ... which stings so much that you can't see past it to even read properly. Clearly you just aren't smart enough to join the dots though. You must be one of those Tommy Robinson Reich whinger inbred yobbo types ...

[@xabiruli]

Love the back three you’ve selected

[@hafidkouloun6405]

I just cannot fathom why you're so "impressed" with Slade.. It's beyond me!!

[@kingkongsson1]

Agree, excellent at prem level but struggles against the top teams at international level.

[@hafidkouloun6405]

@@kingkongsson1 Yes! Apart from that 2019 2nd half vs Ireland..

[@hithere3035]

Agree. I think it's a bit like why Cole and Marler were still in the team for a long time, i know there is lack of depth in that area but i feel like Borthwick just doesn't have the ruthlessness to just say sorry guys you're too old and not good enough at international level no more. He's too nice. Ultimately how can you improve the players in line behind Cole, Marler and Slade without giving them a shot in the England shirt.

[@Jeffisawesome536]

@@hithere3035cole and marler were our best props. Without them our scrum was awful. Will stuart has been poor, joe heyes not great. Cole has been far and above englands best th

[@andrewharris1837]

Spot on Tim.wish you Borthwick selector 😅

[@James-o2u9x]

This team really excited me. The forwards squad is immense.

[@Simwil33]

I like your second team the most with the 6-2 split! I reckon Chessum will start for line out dominance and I welcome it. CCS off the bench is perfect, England's bench haven't had enough impact recently and popping CCS there changes an average bench into an impactful bench.

[@chrise7058]

I am a big fan of Hendy. He just looks so strong and committed in attack.

[@MrAnamchara]

Can’t argue with Aby decision you made for this squad and match day squad . Wish you were selecting mate

[@kev63inuk]

Agree with most here especially Willis in at 8 . Definitely no Daley nor Dan Cole which hurts me to say. And feel that Opoku-Fordjour has to bring that winning mentality from 20s World Cup to this squad. Forget his age he’s ready now. 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

[@MrMargo48]

Underhill now an injury doubt, sadly.

[@bristowezt9751]

You’ve missed Fergus Burke. No, I’m not suggesting he starts or is even on the bench much. But they need to squad him and get him capped. He is incredible property, potential will be unleashed in the next two years. Scotland will be looking

[@tobyslater2011]

Fergus Burkes been average

[@DarceG-jh1ik]

I like it. One doubt for me though comes from asking the question “what would Rassie do?”, which I obviously don’t know, but I could see it as a Rassie move to bring Pollock in now because he is clearly destined to play for England and start for many years so give him the exposure and use his momentum to get him to top top world class by the age of 26. Thoughts anyone?

[@JamesStevenson-g3v]

Would also like to see a 6:2 split. Since this video I think Underhill is now a doubt so would go 6. Chessum 7. T Curry 8. Willis with Earl and CCS to bring impact in the second half.

[@jnturner506]

Very good selections. Bit too soon for Hendy for me and someway somehow I'd love to see Ibitoye in the mix. Would prefer Finn over George as bench 10 and yes yes yes to Willis. You don't have the Currys which just shows the back row strength. The #1 weakness: 12 - we've not had a proper unit at 12 since Will Greenwood retired and that was 20y ago; we have to get one from somewhere. Wales are totally in the doldrums yet they pull out Max Llewelyn who's ripping up seats...where's ours?

[@tcr_tiagy]

Based on form Heyes from Leicester at THP and Quirke at 9 might have a chance to get in the squad. Also based on form I would not pick Slade at 13, very good call as a utility back for a 6-2 split.

[@AndrewAW-w2l]

Alex Mitchell is excellent- brings generalship to the position, reckon he would be Bok starter in another life.

[@harryhughes3740]

Prefer Quirke over Randall but definitely won’t complain if Randall is picked. Probably start underhill over earl at 7 purely for his defence. Bringing a fresh Ben Earl on at 60 mins would be a daunting prospect for most sides

[@zkavess7294]

Agree on dropping some of the players who've been on the fringes and we either know what they can do or they've been found wanting (Daly the former, Dommers the latter). I would drop Spencer too - JVP was his level in the Autumn and has probably got a higher potential ceiling than Spencer. If SB doesn't fancy JVP then Porter or Quirke worth a go, especially for that third spot which'll have limited to no gametime. Love the Atkinson shout. Don't agree with Chessum at 6. We're relatively weak at 2nd row so better to save him or Martin for the bench. Get CCS and Hill competing for the 6 spot imo. Edit: Yeah, your 6-2 lineup is much better. Even that lineup with a fly-half instead of Hendy would be fine - there's enough variability in the backs to cover a lot of injury scenarios. Good vid.

[@StretchFletcher]

Good selection. Could be the start of a good run.

[@harrydennis6854]

Largwly agree with your squad, Tim. I'd make the following changes though: Heyes for Davison Pearson/Pollock for T Curry If Hendy is still out injured I'd love to see Ibotoye come in and get a chance against Wales, see if he can do it on the big stage. I'd love to see what your "experimental" side would be for a Wales/Italy game. Not lookung oast them at all, but I think you can have 1-4 players slot in and still have the experience/quality, while giving guys like F. Smith, Hill, Opoku Fordjour, Oghre, Murley a go. Two cents Rugby has done a good depth chart analysis for all the main international teams, based on playing time, and we're way behind in terms of developing our 2nd/3rd choice players atm. Would love to know your take

[@nicholasdejager9]

Interesting insights, considering Underhill didn't get the Elite special contract but Tom Curry did...

[@expressoevangelism80]

Could we select from your preferred back row selection to complete the positions from 4-8. Just imagine the dynamic running with the ball and tackling everywhere, that could create possession from anywhere in the centre of the field. I have a bee in my bonnet covering 10, 12 and 15, inasmuch that I’d love to see an on field continuous switch around between Marcus and Finn Smith, along with Henry Slade. Add to that a big strong dynamic running centre who can find and run interesting angles. Such a pity we’ve lost Immanuel Feyi Wabuso (sorry about spelling) call up Sleightholme and anyone from a wide mix of 4 or 5 others. 1-3 I leave that to those who know what they’re doing. 9 depends on the day. They all seem to be very variable. Is it hormonal? Scrum halves are peculiar creatures? It could be fun, as long as they manage to keep fit. Things to be concerned about:- Penalties: du Pont: Strong running centres. All being well, it should be fun. All the best with whatever lies ahead.

[@patrickjackson9827]

Agreed not much problem only putting jack Kenninghem should have a shout in on form and starting over Cunningham south

[@NicholasFallowfield]

I like your team and squad, but I am thinking that Finn Smith might be the best option now at 10. He brings his fellow backs into play better and manages games well, whereas Marcus has more golden try scoring ability within him, but his overall game can be lesser. And whilst I have always been a Slade fan does his recent form warrant continued selection? If not then how about some Northampton continuity and select Dingwall outside Finn? That leaves Lawrence to play in his preferred 13/wider channel. I like your back row.

[@luke.hutchinson]

Tough call on Dombrandt, as a Quins fan. But I agree, he hasn’t stepped up into the international role.

[@colinchisholm300]

As a Scotland supporter I'd be delighted if England pick this 15, particularly Genge and George.

[@G-wm2ll]

No room for Ford, Slade, George, Roebuck, Steward, let’s move on Tim… Willis, Hendy Young props all good calls.

[@jamesheydon-k9b]

Couldn’t agree more

[@colinknapman4539]

Yup. Your selections are sound. Squad and starting XV. The real issue for me is whether they play to their full potential, ie whether the game plan/game management is sufficiently flexible and ambitious to produce winning results against the best.

[@ianeveratt7273]

I like the 6-2 squad, but Underhill to be a starter. England have had the players to go 6-2 for a while and I think it should have been tried more. Don't forget Earl could play in the mid-field should there be the need for three back replacements

[@JohnRidley12]

As a falcons fan I'll always go to bat for Blamire & I'd probably start Daly of Steward at 15, but otherwise looks great. Love the 6-2 split. although maybe Martin on the bench. just love the idea of Martin and CCS coming on to bash people

[@jimbo021075]

Willis coming in… controversial having an 8 playing at 8! Love it ted hill is immense

[@robslade9281]

Love your squad, Tom Willis really needs a start.. any chance you can get a job with England?

[@sachinbangaru737]

Happy New Year Tim.

[@LittleBigMediaCo]

The updated end-of-2024 kick obstruction directive could change the selection dynamic of a few sides. In the few games we saw it, it was clear that the taller 11, 14 & 15's were better suited to the new aerial contests ... so Steward should likely be inked into his position. Also, those aerial contests are now more physical, and we saw quite a few players come down heavily, while the ref's called 'even contest' and waved play on. That extra risk of injury to the back 3 is going to make 6-2 benches even more of a gamble in 2025.

[@bolton121]

I agree. I think it makes Smith less of a long term option at 15 and probably bumps Roebuck up the order. It's also probably what's keeping Ibotoye out of the squad, it was his clear weakness in the A game against Australia

[@fraserposford144]

I like this squad a lot. Now feels like a good time to shed some of the old guard and dead weight. Cole is behind Hayes at club level, Isiekwe and Dombrandt have never really cut it at international level despite being good club players, Daly wasn't used throughout the autumn. Agree largely with the selections of the incoming players, Murley NEEDS to be capped, just so impressive every week for Quins plus was excellent in the England A game. Same can be said for Joe Carpenter, great under the high ball and a good counter attacking fullback despite his lack of size. Centre remains the biggest area for concern. Slade would be a great utility option off the bench but I don't rate him and Lawrence. Seems like they're trying to force Lawrence into Tuilagi's old role whereas he seems like a different player who needs the open space of the 13 channel to be most effective. I'd love to see someone like Luke Northmore in the 12 shirt. Not the flashiest player but he's a good all-rounder who can free up Lawrence for more open field running.

[@joshhunter1129]

Have you decided what games you’ll be going to in this years 6N yet? Always like the videos from outside the stadium

[@06alepea1]

I think the AIs proved just how important Mitchell and Chessum are to England. Mitchell gives Smith time on the ball. And as said, Chessum balances any backrow he’s in because he’s hitting rucks.

[@adamclarke7029]

For me 1. Genge, Rodd, Baxter 2. LCD, Langdon, George 3. Stuart, Heyes, Opoku 4. Itoje, Chessum 5. Martin, Coles 6. Hill, CCS 7. Underhill, Curry 8. Willis, Earl, Dombrandt 9. Mitchell, JVP, Porter/Quirke 10. M Smith, F Smith, Ford 11.Sleightholme, Murley, Ibitoye 12. Dingwall, Atkinson, 13. Lawrence, Beard 14. Freeman, Roebuck 15. Steward, Hendy A squad 1. Iyogun, Brantingham, Haffar 2. Dan, Oghre,Riley 3. Harper, Kloska 4.Owen, Clark 5. Tuima, Bamber 6. Fisilau, Pearson 7. Pepper, Harding 8. Barbeary, Pollock 9. Porter/Quirke, Randall 10. Bailey, Atkinson 11. Wyatt, 12.Ojomoh 13.Kelly, Hartley 14. David, Elliot 15. Carpenter, Hodge

[@lizzyhanahoe4197]

Just over 1 minute in you said “I can’t wait for the 6Ns”, I remember you saying that this time last year like it was yesterday!! Where has a year gone already??

[@geoffpatton5076]

Another great video. I prefer Lozowski over Slade. Crying shame about Jack Willis.

[@Waldemar-10811]

Agree with most of that - a fit Chessum walks in at 6 and frees up at CCS for impact, with Earl/Underhill a toss up at 7. My preference would be for a midfield of Dingwall/Lawrence. On the bench I'd like to see F. Smith so that we can see what he can do at this level and from the 3rd game onwards I'd like to see Asher covering tight head and Obano getting some time at loose head. Hendy has huge potential but his defence looked at bit iffy against Bath at the weekend so it may be too soon for him (IMHO). Really hope that JVP is the scrum half to miss out but I fear he's a Borthwick blind spot.

[@SweptDust5340]

Hendy defence looked wobbly where? I guess for the First bath try he could have put the shoulder in if he committed earlier to the inside man, but in fairness it’s a 1v2. He’s been pretty great defensively aside from that this season, put in some huge hits

[@edwardharris2388]

I think one area where things haven't really been working for England is the centres. For that reason I'd like to see Dingwall come back in at 12 and either Slad or Lawrence at 13.

[@willscott2409]

Tom Willis on form... all day long... just think Ford has had his day... I have faith and the youngsters

[@PatrickSamphire]

I would drop Baxter. Not that he isn't brilliant, but he's young and he's played a hell of a lot of rugby, and he's starting to look a bit tired. Give him the 6N as a break.

[@mikelambrou4462]

I like your 23 a lot but I’d be very tempted to put Smith at 15 with either Ford or Fin Smith at 10 and a 6:2 bench of LCD, Obano, AOF, Underhill, CCS, Curry, JVP, Roebuck or Hendy

[@Bpt8825]

For the Six Nations I’d like to see: Baxter, Dan, Heyes Itoje, Martin, Hill, T Willis, Pollock Mitchell, F Smith, Hartley,Freeman, Roebuck, Sleightholme Hodge Bench: Rodd, Frost, Opoku-Fojdour, Coles, Earl, Porter, M Smith, Murley

[@notmcgreo764]

Way too young, would be a good summer series though

[@TP1988]

Fascinated since last season that Hendy has t had any England chat / hype, he’s looked a freakish athlete with X Factor in making for a while

[@marco-dn7kd]

Are you planning to review the other 5 Nations squad !? I agree with you on Slade, critics are unfair. Why Daly could not play center ? Your English squad is impressive and should they win in Ireland or loose just for a few points, the next game in Twickenham should be quite interesting to say the less...

[@PaddyV]

Underhill, Earl and Willis starting, would love to see Hendy at 15 and Finn Smith at 10 as well.