Pundit Arena Because Sport Is Everything
Eddie Jones is set to select a strong starting XV against Wales.
If there ever was a game where the coaches of both England and Wales could experiment, this weekend’s clash is it.
Given that the fixture was scheduled so as to compensate clubs for the disruption caused during the World Cup, both Eddie Jones and Warren Gatland would have been forgiven for handing numerous players their first starts and selecting a number of squad players.
Indeed, with the game yet to sell out, supporters have not embraced the prospect of watching England and Wales slug it out for the third time since October.
Nevertheless, the clash makes a change from England’s usual end of season game with the Barbarians, and should prove to be more competitive.
However, after the shock inclusion of Kyle Sinckler, Ellis Genge and Teimana Harrison, some might have expected a little more experimentation from Jones.
Instead, according to The Telegraph, the England coach has picked Matt Mullan, Dylan Hartley and Dan Cole in the front row, with Joe Launchbury and Courtney Lawes behind them in the second row.
The back row is said to be comprised of Chris Robshaw, James Haskell at six and seven respectively, with Harrison selected at number eight.
Although the newspaper did not mention who is expected to start at scrum half, George Ford will be selected at fly half, with Luther Burrell and Jonathan Joseph forming the centre partnership.
Finally, Anthony Watson, Marland Yarde and Mike Brown will make up the back three.
Alan Drumm, Pundit Arena
Heineken Rugby Club celebrates and rewards real supporters who make the game what it is.
