England World Cup team named as Borthwick makes Farrell call and drops hero

Rugby World Cup: Ribbans previews England v Chile

England head coach Steve Borthwick has rung the changes to face Chile, after winning their opening two games at the Rugby World Cup, with captain Owen Farrell handed a starting berth after returning from suspension. He will play at fly-half, after serving a four-match ban for a dangerous tackle against Wales on August 12.

He comes in at the expense of George Ford, who is among the replacements despite his heroics in the opening match against Argentina – having kicked all 27 points as the 14 men got their first win on the board. He also impressed in the 34-12 win over Japan, but Borthwick has opted against starting three fly-halves.

They could all play at some point in the match, however, as Marcus Smith will be trialled as a full-back from the start. He made an impact late on against Japan and is named in the team ahead of Freddie Steward, who is among those to be rested after picking up a small knock at the end of the win over Japan, as England are expected to secure a comfortable win over Chile.

Courtney Lawes, who has captained England in Farrell’s absence, is rested along with Manu Tuilagi – with Henry Arundell, Jack Willis and David Ribbans set to make their first appearances at the World Cup.

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Saracens hooker Theo Dan is also replacing his clubmate Jamie George in the same position, allowing the 22-year-old to add to his five England caps and get some valuable minutes into the forward. Billy Vunipola, meanwhile, is handed a start at No. 8 – having been short of match fitness due to his suspension.

“One of the many great things about the Rugby World Cup is that the tournament provides an excellent opportunity to play against teams that we rarely have a chance to see. It is for that reason that we are particularly looking forward to testing ourselves against Chile on Saturday,” said Borthwick.

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“Having watched our next opponent closely, we know that we will have to prepare and play well against a committed Chile team. As we head to the next round, it is only right that I once again pay tribute to our excellent supporters who I know will be right behind us in Lille this weekend.”

Full XV: 15. Marcus Smith, 14. Henry Arundell, 13. Elliot Daly, 12. Ollie Lawrence, 11. Max Malins 10. Owen Farrell (capt.), 9. Danny Care, 1. Bevan Rodd, 2. Theo Dan, 3. Kyle Sinckler, 4. David Ribbans, 5. George Martin, 6. Lewis Ludlam, 7. Jack Willis, 8. Billy Vunipola.

Replacements: Jack Walker, Joe Marler, Will Stuart, Ollie Chessum, Ben Earl, Ben Youngs, George Ford, Joe Marchant.

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