Lock: Maro Itoje – “Saracens and England will need to manage his workload to ensure this generational talent will arrive at the peak of his powers.”
Likelihood: Nailed on
Lock: Joel Kpoku – “An incredibly hard-hitting carrier in the mould of Eben Etzebeth, a selection in the coming months would not be surprising.”
Likelihood: Not even available as he’s playing in France
Flanker: Tom Curry – “Nominated for World Rugby Men’s 15s Player of the Year in the same year as his international breakthrough, the fairytale story should continue for Curry.”
Likelihood: Position in doubt for the first time in his international career, but should make the squad
Flanker: Sam Underhill – “If his tough tackling does not lead to injury, expect to see the Curry-Underhill combination in France.”
Likelihood: Out of favour, but at his best could still be valuable
Number 8: Billy Vunipola – “With the spirit of optimism, and the example of Duane Vermeulen, who won a World Cup at 33, we’ll say he’ll make it – with Bath’s Zach Mercer an heir to develop in the interim.”
Likelihood: Not fancied by Borthwick
