Scrum-half: Alex Mitchell, Ben Spencer, Raffi Quirke
Alex Mitchell and Ben Spencer appear well established as the leading options, leaving room for a third scrum-half. Raffi Quirke fits that role well. After a slow start to the season, he has rediscovered his form for Sale, reminding observers of his explosive potential.
While consistency remains a question, his versatility and ability to offer a contrasting style — including cover on the wing — make him a valuable squad player.
Fly-half: George Ford, Fin Smith, Marcus Smith
The main debate here will centre on who starts, rather than who makes the squad. All three fly-halves have done more than enough to earn selection, presenting Steve Borthwick with a genuine selection dilemma — albeit a welcome one.
Centre: Fraser Dingwall, Ollie Lawrence, Max Ojomoh
With Ollie Lawrence returning from long-term injury, he is expected to slot straight back into the side, as he did during the autumn. Fraser Dingwall remains the connective tissue of England’s attack, while Max Ojomoh merits another opportunity following strong club form and an impressive display against Argentina that suggested he is ready for Test rugby.
Back three: Tommy Freeman, Tom Roebuck, Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, Elliot Daly, Freddie Steward, Noah Caluori
Tommy Freeman may feature at outside centre but remains a back-three option. Roebuck and Feyi-Waboso should also be included, assuming Roebuck recovers from his toe injury in time. Elliot Daly’s versatility is always valuable, while Freddie Steward impressed at full-back in the autumn and looks set to continue there.
The final spot could go to another wildcard in Noah Caluori — the highly talented Saracens youngster whose early exposure at Test level could yield significant long-term rewards for England.
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