Courtney Lawes returns to England squad for Nations Championship

Wednesday, 22 July 2026 at 13:49

byCharlie Elliott

England's attention now turns to the autumn edition of the Nations Championship, with Steve Borthwick set to name a squad capable of challenging for silverware on home soil.

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Australia, Japan and New Zealand all visit Allianz Stadium before finals weekend, also hosted in England.

There are few surprises in the predicted squad, although one experienced forward is tipped to make a long-awaited return after leaving France.

Prop: Ellis Genge, Emmanuel Iyogun, Bevan Rodd, Joe Heyes, Will Stuart, Asher Opoku-Fordjour

Ellis Genge remains England's first-choice loosehead, while Bevan Rodd should slot straight back into the squad once he has fully recovered from injury.

Emmanuel Iyogun earns the final loosehead spot after an impressive season with Northampton Saints. His debut may not have been spectacular, but his development over the past year suggests he has a bright future at Test level.

On the tighthead side, Joe Heyes has established himself as the leading option, with Will Stuart expected to return from injury in time for the autumn if his recovery goes to plan.

Asher Opoku-Fordjour completes the group. Still only 22, he is one of England's most exciting young forwards and his ability to play on both sides of the scrum only strengthens his case.

Hooker: Jamie George, Luke Cowan-Dickie, Kepu Tuipulotu

Jamie George remains an automatic selection after captaining England during the summer, bringing leadership and vast international experience. Luke Cowan-Dickie also keeps his place thanks to his proven quality at the highest level.

Looking beyond the established pair, England need to begin planning for the future. Kepu Tuipulotu looks the most promising young option and involving him now would allow him to gain valuable experience before eventually taking on a bigger role at Test level.

Lock: Maro Itoje, Ollie Chessum, Alex Coles, George Martin

Having been rested over the summer, Maro Itoje should return refreshed and ready to lead England once again in the autumn. His presence remains crucial both as captain and as the side's standout second row.

Ollie Chessum, Alex Coles and George Martin each offer different strengths, giving Steve Borthwick plenty of flexibility. Martin's move to Saracens also raises the prospect of him building a strong partnership with Itoje at both club and international level.

Back Row: Ben Earl, Henry Pollock, Guy Pepper, Sam Underhill, Tom Curry, Courtney Lawes, Chandler Cunningham-South

Ben Earl, Henry Pollock and Guy Pepper have all done enough to cement their places. Earl continues to perform at an elite level, while Pollock and Pepper have emerged as two of England's brightest young forwards.

Sam Underhill and Tom Curry provide the experience and physical edge that balance the back row, doing much of the unseen work that allows the more dynamic players to thrive.

Courtney Lawes is tipped for an international return following his move from Brive to Sale Sharks, adding leadership and composure to the squad.

Chandler Cunningham-South rounds off the group, offering genuine versatility thanks to his ability to play lock as well as his power carrying in the loose.

Scrum-half: Alex Mitchell, Archie McParland, Jack van Poortvliet

Alex Mitchell and Jack van Poortvliet remain the obvious choices after consistently performing for England. Ben Spencer, meanwhile, appears to have run out of opportunities to establish himself at Test level despite his excellent club form.

Archie McParland earns the final place after an outstanding finish to the season.

His understanding with likely starting fly-half Fin Smith, built through their time together at Northampton Saints, is another significant advantage, and he arguably finished the campaign ahead of Mitchell on club form.

Fly-half: Fin Smith, George Ford, Marcus Smith

There are few surprises here. Fin Smith has strengthened his grip on the number 10 shirt following an excellent summer, while George Ford continues to provide reliable and experienced cover.

Marcus Smith keeps his place thanks to his versatility. His performances at scrum-half during the summer highlighted another string to his bow, while he also remains a genuine option at fullback.

Centre: Benhard Janse van Rensburg, Henry Slade, Seb Atkinson, Ollie Lawrence

Benhard Janse van Rensburg, Henry Slade and Seb Atkinson all did enough over the summer to make themselves automatic selections. Their performances have finally given England some stability in midfield after years of searching for the right combination.

The final place goes to Ollie Lawrence. Injuries have disrupted his progress, but at his best he remains one of England's most dangerous centres.

Max Ojomoh continues to push for selection, although another strong season may be needed before he forces his way into the squad.

Back Three: Noah Caluori, George Furbank, Tommy Freeman, Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, Elliot Daly, Freddie Steward, Cadan Murley

George Furbank, Tommy Freeman and Immanuel Feyi-Waboso are among the first names on the teamsheet, while Noah Caluori has clearly earned Steve Borthwick's trust and looks set to remain involved after making a positive impression.

Elliot Daly's versatility continues to make him a valuable squad player, even if he is unlikely to start when everyone is available.

Freddie Steward provides additional cover at fullback, while Cadan Murley has shown he can step into the side whenever required and remains a dependable option on the wing.

Quiz: Name these 10 retro rugby players

From jaw-dropping tries to unforgettable moments (and yes, some questionable haircuts), these players defined a golden era of the game. If their names don’t instantly come to mind, we suggest a quick trip to YouTube to jog your memory. Trust us, it’s worth it.

Ready to test your knowledge? Let’s see if you’ve still got it. Good luck!