2. Number Eight – Billy Vunipola vs Alex Dombrandt
Since the appointment of Steve Borthwick as England’s Head Coach, Billy Vunipola has not been involved with the national side. Eddie Jones favoured Vunipola as England’s go-to Number Eight, however the 30-year-old has not yet been able to gain favour in the Borthwick era. Alex Dombrandt is the new eight-man, with the Harlequin featuring in each of England’s matches throughout the 2023 Six Nations.
The torch has seemingly already been passed, but a lot can happen from now and the 2023 Rugby World Cup. There is speculation around Vunipola’s Saracens future, with transfer rumours surrounding a potential exit from the Stone X Stadium. Former Wasps back-rower Tom Willis is set to join Saracens ahead of next season, and will be in contention with Vunipola for the number eight jersey.
Alex Dombrandt is steadily coming into his own for England, and has been a fan favourite at the Twickenham Stoop since making his debut in 2018. He was criticised after England’s Calcutta Cup loss to Scotland, yet recovered well and fought valiantly throughout the remainder of the competition. It was a Six Nations to forget for England, yet Dombrandt presented positive signs for the future.
Dombrandt and Vunipola will do battle up front on Saturday, in a physical contest between the two powerhouse line-breakers. Front-foot ball will be essential at the Tottenham Hotspur stadium, with both players eager to set their side out with attacking momentum early on.