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Two England stars facing the axe after Japan rout – and the big names set to replace them

England Rugby News
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England ran riot against Japan, but two players could still lose their starting places when the All Blacks arrive at Twickenham next weekend.
Steve Borthwick's side demolished Eddie Jones' Japan 78-15, with Will Joseph stealing the show after scoring five tries.
However, England's 12-try masterclass wasn't without its problems.
George Ford endured a nightmare from the kicking tee, while Luke Cowan-Dickie faces a battle to keep his place.
With Fin Smith and Jamie George waiting in the wings, Borthwick has two big decisions to make.

1. George Ford – Fin Smith to replace him

Ford's return to the England starting XV didn't quite go to plan.
The experienced fly-half watched England's attack run riot, but his kicking boots appeared to have been left somewhere on the M25.
Ford landed just four of his ten conversion attempts before Henry Slade eventually took over.
Admittedly, several kicks came from difficult angles. Nevertheless, the Sale Sharks veteran will know he left plenty of points behind.
Against Japan, England could afford those misses. Against New Zealand, it could be a different story.
Fin Smith, who started England's victory over Australia, will without a doubt reclaim the No.10 shirt.
The Northampton Saints playmaker was given a rest this weekend, but will likely return for the biggest test of England's autumn so far.
Ford remains a trusted figure in Borthwick's plans. However, Saturday's display has given his head coach plenty to think about.

2. Luke Cowan-Dickie – Jamie George to replace him

This would be a much harsher call.
Cowan-Dickie certainly wasn't England's worst performer against Japan.
The Sale Sharks hooker worked hard around the breakdown and claimed two turnovers as England's forwards dominated.
However, the 62-cap international faces a familiar problem.
Jamie George is waiting.
The experienced Saracens hooker started against Australia before making way for Cowan-Dickie against Japan.
George remains one of Borthwick's most reliable performers, particularly when the stakes rise.
His leadership, set-piece experience and understanding with England's forwards could give him the edge against the All Blacks.
Cowan-Dickie hasn't played himself out of the team. But George may simply be too important to leave out.

Borthwick faces a selection headache

England's demolition of Japan gave Borthwick plenty of positives, not least Joseph's remarkable five-try performance.
However, the All Blacks will provide a completely different challenge.
New Zealand's shock 35-28 defeat to Wales only adds another twist to next weekend's showdown.
Ford's kicking struggles could open the door for Fin Smith, while George looks a strong contender to reclaim the No.2 jersey.
Two experienced players could therefore find themselves back among the replacements, despite England's biggest win of the autumn.
The question isn't whether England were good enough against Japan. It's whether Borthwick trusts the same players against New Zealand.

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