BREAKING: Henry Slade left out of England Rugby World Cup squad

Rugby News

by Rugby Rucker

Sunday, 06 August 2023 at 18:14

byRugby Rucker

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Henry Slade has been left devastated after being surprisingly left out of England's World Cup squad.

The decision seems to be influenced by Steve Borthwick's preference for size and versatility in the team.

Their performances in England's disappointing 20-9 defeat to Wales on Saturday seem to have affected their chances of making it to the World Cup squad.

According to Telegraph Sport, Borthwick explained to the 30-year-old that he needed more wing cover, leading to Joe Marchant benefiting from the selection.

In the squad, Marchant will be joined by the powerful duo of Ollie Lawrence and Manu Tuilagi as the only specialist centres. However, Elliot Daly and captain Owen Farrell will also be able to provide additional cover if needed.

Try Celebrations for Henry Slade of England as he goes over for a try during the Autumn Nations International Series match between England and South Africa at Twickenham, London on 26 November 2022 (Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK)

Among the other casualties from England's wider training squad are No 8 Alex Dombrandt, hooker Jamie Blamire, and wing Joe Cokanasiga.

Their performances in England's disappointing 20-9 defeat to Wales on Saturday seem to have affected their chances of making it to the World Cup squad.

BACKS (14)

Back three (5): Freddie Steward, Anthony Watson, Elliot Daly, Max Malins, Henry Arundell (if fit)

Omitted: Jonny May, Joe Cokanasiga, Cadan Murley

Max Malins of England during the Summer Nations Series Rugby match between Wales and England at Principality Stadium on August 5, 2023 in Cardiff, Wales. Photo: Phil Mingo/PPAUK

Centre (3): Ollie Lawrence, Joe Marchant, Manu Tuilagi

Omitted: Henry Slade, Guy Porter

A frustrated Ollie Lawrence of England during the Guinness Six Nations match between England and France at Twickenham Stadium, Twickenham, London on Saturday 11th March 2023 | Photo: James Fearn/PPAUK.

Fly half (3): Owen Farrell (captain), George Ford, Marcus Smith

Owen Farrell, Captain of England during the Six Nations Match between England and Italy at Twickenham, London on 12 Feb 2023 (Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK)

Scrum half (3): Jack van Poortvliet, Danny Care, Ben Youngs

FORWARDS (19)

Loosehead props (3): Ellis Genge (vice-captain), Joe Marler, Bevan Rodd

Omitted: Mako Vunipola (injury)

Joe Marler of England Rugby during the Six Nations Championship match between England and Wales at Twickenham Stadium, Twickenham, London on February 26th 2021. - PHOTO: Phil Mingo/PPAUK

Hooker (3): Jamie George, Theo Dan, Jack Walker (if fit)

Omitted: Jamie Blamire