Wales gave themselves a significant pre-World Cup boost as they outclassed England, leading to a convincing victory.
Gareth Davies and George North were the standout performers, each scoring impressive tries, while Leigh Halfpenny’s 10 points from kicks added to their dominance.
The win proved to be an exceptional beginning for newly appointed captain Jac Morgan, adding to the team’s confidence ahead of the upcoming World Cup. England’s Marcus Smith managed to keep them in the game with three successful penalties, but it wasn’t enough to match Wales’ prowess on the field.
Both teams now face the crucial task of selecting their final squads for the World Cup. Head coach Steve Borthwick will announce England’s 33-man squad on Monday, while Wales’ Warren Gatland has decided to take a few more weeks to make his selections.
Below we look at five England players who did their selection hopes no favours.
#1. Max Malins
Telegraph 5/10: “Busy and willing, especially on the kick-chase and when attempting to inject momentum into messy attacks. Does he have the dynamism to be a Test wing?”
Planet Rugby 5/10: “Didn’t deal with the grubber through for the second try and just doesn’t offer a whole lot with ball in hand at this level. A smart player who reads the game well and has an eye for the try-line, but wasn’t really a factor here.”
Rugby Pass 5/10: “Back in favour for now after getting axed post the French humiliation, he twice teased with his threat in the opposition’s 22 in the first half, but there was no end product at the line and his display became undone by coughing up too many turnovers.”
