Greg Fisilau set to be among THREE uncapped players called up by Steve Borthwick this summer

It's been a decade since England's last visit to New Zealand, a challenging 2014 series under Stuart Lancaster resulting in a 3-0 defeat.

The memories of the 2008 tour aren't any sweeter, with England tasting defeat in both Tests against the All Blacks. However, a glimmer of triumph emerged in 2003, as they secured a thrilling 15-13 victory over New Zealand just before the Rugby World Cup.

In this highly anticipated tour, Borthwick's squad will face a formidable challenge with only two tests against the All Blacks, following a clash with Japan in Tokyo.

Below, we look at three uncapped players set to be called up by England boss Steve Borthwick.

The young No. 8 player, Fisilau, only 20 years old, had an amazing game against Harlequins this weekend, outshining Alex Dombrandt.

His team won 58-26, moving up to fifth place. Fisilau's outstanding performance on the field was the highlight of the match. The England U20 international has proved himself to be an incredible robust ball carrier, and doesn't give an inch in defence.

"He had a standout game – one of his best," said Exeter director of rugby Baxter following the game.

"He has had a great season. There was a head-to-head confrontation going on there about who is touring with England.

"I think Greg put down as big a marker as he could. He was playing Under-20 rugby last year. The physical development and the maturity is all going to come."

DID YOU KNOW? His family originate from Tonga, with his dad former Plymouth Albion centre and Tongan international, Keni Fisila

Repots suggest the powerhouse prop is set to be included in England’s squad for the summer tour of Japan and New Zealand. 

In an exclusive interview with Mail Sport, Baxter disclosed that he deliberately didn't book a holiday this summer, indicating his eagerness for tour selection. 

“I think I’m ready. I want to play for England, I want to play for the Lions,” he said.

“That’s been my plan since the start, but I don’t like getting ahead of myself. I’m really proud of how well I’ve done this season and it would be beyond my imagination if it happens,” he expressed.

Baxter made his Harlequins debut at The Stoop in the Champions Cup against Racing 92 coming off the bench in the 68th minute in December 2020. 

Under the tutelage of Adam Jones, Fin transitioned from tighthead to loosehead and is capable on both sides of the scrum. Baxter made his debut for England U20s during the 2021 U20 Six Nations and proved his leadership by captaining the age group. 

Providing competition for Joe Marler, Baxter has gone on to cement himself as a regular fixture in the matchday 23 at The Stoop. The young Prop was also called into the England A squad in 2024 and started at loosehead against Portugal at Welford Road

DID YOU KNOW? Alongside rugby, he also grew up playing football and competing in Judo

With Tom Curry unlikely to return in time for the tour, Borthwick is reportedly ready to hand Newcastle Falcons player of the season his first call-up to the senior side.

Set to join Bath next season, Guy has been a regular in the England age-grade teams. The traditional openside flanker has been mentored by England legend Richard Hill and starred in the 2020 Academy Under-18s League campaign.

He made his first A-Team appearance against Sale Jets in April 2021, and is studying at Durham University.

Pepper enjoyed a breakthrough season in 2022-23, bursting onto the first-team scene after impressing on his debut away at Northampton in October 2022, starting the following weekend when the Falcons won at Gloucester.

Pepper scored three tries in seven games before a season-ending foot injury cut short his campaign, but his ability by that stage was plain to see.