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England flanker Tom Curry stood down with replacement revealed

England Rugby News
Tom Curry
England could be without Tom Curry for their opening autumn Nations Championship fixture against Australia, with the Sale Sharks flanker reportedly withdrawn from training.
Steve Borthwick's side will take on the Wallabies at Allianz Stadium this Sunday, as they look to make the most of their three remaining fixtures before the finals weekend.
England will also face Japan and the All Blacks, having claimed two victories from their three summer matches.
Borthwick's men will be targeting a strong finish to the competition, with a chance to top the northern hemisphere standings.
According to The Times, Curry was stood down from England training at Pennyhill Park yesterday, with twin brother Ben reportedly in contention to start at openside against Australia.
Henry Pollock and Greg Fisilau could also be named among the replacements if Borthwick decides to go with a six-two split, which appears a likely option.
Tom Curry made his Sale Sharks debut in 2016 before establishing himself as a key figure in the England back row.
He won the 2020 Six Nations, captained England in 2022 and featured in the 2019 Rugby World Cup final.
Curry has also toured with the British and Irish Lions twice, starting all three Tests in 2021 before helping secure victory in Australia in 2025.
Should Ben Curry replace his brother, it would mark his first England appearance since July 2025.
The decision would represent a significant selection call from Borthwick, particularly with Pollock widely regarded as one of the most exciting young talents in English rugby.
Opting for Curry over Pollock would suggest England are prioritising his breakdown work and defensive qualities over Pollock's threat with ball in hand.
It could also offer an indication of the approach Borthwick wants his side to take against Australia, with Curry's experience and ability to compete at the breakdown potentially proving valuable.
Ben has endured a difficult spell with injuries, featuring in just four matches throughout last season after suffering a serious hamstring injury.
However, the 28-year-old has since returned to fitness and has already made four appearances for Sale Sharks this campaign, starting three of them.

Pick your England XV

Borthwick faces some difficult selection decisions ahead of Sunday's clash with Australia.
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