"Lawes should be at lock "- Woodward suggests FOUR changes for series decider
Rugby NewsSunday, 10 July 2022 at 08:02
Sir Clive Woodward has revealed the changes Eddie Jones should make heading into England's series decider against Australia next weekend.
"England's success was built on the pack, which was superb. In the first half the performance produced by the forwards was 10 out of 10. It was really impressive," wrote the World Cup -winner.
"The third Test could be spectacular now. England have taken a lot of criticism for some of their recent performances, but as much as I've been one of those voices, you also have to give credit to the team when they deliver.
"I'd go with as close to the same team as the one which started the second Test for the series decider, but injuries mean there will have to be changes."
#1. Lewis Ludlam for Maro Itoje
Woodward wrote: "As I've said repeatedly, Lawes should be at lock and not six so with Itoje out, I'd move him back to the second row. That would mean Lewis Ludlam could slot in on the flank.
"I'm not sure that will happen as it looks like Jones is wedded to the Lawes at six theory."
#2. Farrell at fly-half
Woodward wrote: "I cannot understand why so many people are against Farrell — he must start for England at either 10 or 12. Fly-half is his best position and I still believe England are badly short of a truly world-class 12."
Previously, Woodward wrote in his column for the Mail Online: “There is just not enough pace in this England side, which is highlighted by Owen Farrell and Courtney Lawes. Both should be in the starting team but at fly-half and second row respectively.
“Playing a mercurial fly-half such as Marcus Smith only works if you have the game plan and players around him to match. If you pick him, back him all the way.”
#3. Jack Willis for Sam Underhill
Woodward wrote: "There will also be a doubt over Sam Underhill."
#4. Arundell for Freeman
Woodward wrote: "Arundell scored a fantastic try. So why is he not starting, or at least coming on much sooner when England needed to stretch Australia?
"England have players like Adam Radwan available but he is not even on the tour. England do have players with pace, but Jones doesn’t use them."
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