England’s summer campaign began with a 35-19 defeat to a France XV in Vannes on Friday night, but the match also highlighted an unusual selection quirk involving Bristol Bears centre Benhard Janse van Rensburg.
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Fast Start, Familiar Problems
England made the perfect start when Cadan Murley crossed for a try inside the opening minute after a slick attacking move.
However, France quickly settled into their rhythm, with their trademark handling and attacking flair causing England problems throughout the contest.
The hosts led by just two points at half-time before pulling away after the break, scoring two excellent tries in the opening stages of the second half. England’s set-piece also came under increasing pressure as the game wore on, allowing France to cruise to victory.
Both sides were missing a number of frontline internationals due to domestic club commitments, with England unable to select players involved in Saturday's Premiership final between Northampton Saints and Exeter Chiefs.
France were similarly without stars from Top 14 semi-finalists Toulouse, Racing 92, Stade Français and Montpellier.
Janse van Rensburg's Near Miss
One of England's brightest moments off the bench came from South African-born centre Benhard Janse van Rensburg.
The Bristol midfielder looked set to score after running a sharp line from inside centre, only to spill the ball over the try-line at the crucial moment.
It was a costly error, but his appearance also raised eyebrows for another reason.
Not Yet Eligible
Despite representing England XV against France, Janse van Rensburg is not yet eligible to play Test rugby for England.
The 28-year-old qualifies through residency but does not officially become available for England selection until July.
That means he cannot be capped in England's upcoming Nations Championship opener against South Africa in Johannesburg on 4 July.
Once eligible, Janse van Rensburg could provide Borthwick with another midfield option, particularly given the fierce competition for places in England's backline.
What Next For England?
England's summer schedule now ramps up significantly with a daunting trip to South Africa before further Nations Championship clashes against Fiji and Argentina later in July.
Borthwick will name his squad for the tournament on Monday, with several players having boosted their chances despite the disappointing result in France.
EDITORS PICKS:
“Chance Blown” – Five England Stars Who FLOPPED Against France XV
With Borthwick set to name his squad on Monday, some players boosted their chances. Others may have seen their hopes take a serious hit.
Here are five England stars whose auditions failed to impress.
5. Ted Hill
Few selections generated more intrigue than Ted Hill's inclusion at blindside flanker.
The Bath forward has enjoyed an impressive club campaign and many expected him to make a major statement. While Hill worked hard defensively, he struggled to impose himself on the contest as France's back-row regularly got the better of England around the breakdown.
With fierce competition from the likes of Henry Pollock, Sam Underhill and Ben Earl, Hill needed a standout performance. He didn't get one.
Replacement: Henry Pollock
4. Noah Caluori
The 19-year-old Saracens prospect arrived in France with plenty of excitement surrounding him after speaking openly about his ambition to play senior international rugby this summer.
There were flashes of quality. His footwork created opportunities and he looked dangerous whenever he found space. He also thought he had scored a superb try, only for it to be ruled out.
However, there were also signs that the step up may have come slightly too soon. While the talent is obvious, this display is unlikely to have done enough to force his way into Borthwick's plans for the Nations Championship.
Replacement: Tommy Freeman
3. Benhard Janse van Rensburg
England's evening was perfectly summed up by Benhard Janse van Rensburg dropping the ball over the try-line.
The South Africa-born centre was handed his first opportunity in an England shirt and looked eager to make an impact, but ultimately flattered to deceive.
A certain try went begging, and while he showed glimpses of power and intent, it was not the breakthrough display many were hoping for.
With Henry Slade waiting in the wings, Janse van Rensburg missed a huge opportunity to strengthen his case.
Replacement: Henry Slade
2. George Ford
George Ford's experience was expected to provide stability and control in a youthful England side.
Instead, the veteran fly-half endured a frustrating evening.
There was one moment of class with a brilliant 50:22 kick in the second half, but overall Ford struggled to dictate proceedings. France's defence gave him little time on the ball and several uncharacteristic handling mistakes crept into his game.
With Fin Smith now firmly established as England's first-choice fly-half, this was an opportunity for Ford to remind everyone of his quality. He failed to take it.
Replacement: Fin Smith
1. Marcus Smith
Marcus Smith desperately needed a strong performance after a difficult campaign, but this was another afternoon to forget.
The Harlequins playmaker showed flashes of his attacking brilliance and grabbed a try before half-time, yet too many costly errors overshadowed the positives.
Two kicks sailed directly into touch, with one handing France the territory that led to a try. His decision-making under pressure was inconsistent and his kicking game lacked accuracy.
Borthwick appears committed to Smith as a full-back option, but this was hardly the convincing audition England supporters wanted to see.
With the Nations Championship fast approaching, Smith's place may not be under immediate threat, but this performance certainly did little to silence his critics.
Replacement: George Furbank
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