"No Fin or Marcus Smith" - How England will line-up for the Autumn Nations Series

Wednesday, 23 July 2025 at 14:16

byCharlie Elliott

England head into the Autumn Nations Series full of confidence after a strong summer that saw them beat Argentina twice on South American soil and comfortably handle the USA.

With several players also impressing in the ongoing British and Irish Lions tour, the mood in camp is optimistic.

The fixtures present a real test, though. England will face southern hemisphere heavyweights Australia and New Zealand, a dangerous Fiji side, and a determined Argentina squad hungry for revenge.

Steve Borthwick will have plenty of food for thought regarding selection, with the Premiership starting between now and the Autumn, the Lions not being finished yet, and countless players coming back from long-term injuries.

It might seem a long way away, but here is our prediction of how England may line up for their next set of internationals.

15 – Freddie Steward

Steward remains the safest pair of hands in the backfield. Borthwick trusts him implicitly, and that consistency under the high ball is vital to England's structure. While the emergence of Joe Carpenter and Marcus Smith as alternatives is real, Steward’s Test-level composure still makes him a first-choice fullback for now.

14 – Tommy Freeman

After a stunning season for Northampton Saints, Freeman is almost undroppable for England. Tom Roebuck did very well in his absence, but Freeman is still ahead in the pecking order. It hasn’t been the best Lions tour so far; however, his quality is evident.

13 – Ollie Lawrence

Lawrence’s return cannot come soon enough. England’s midfield missed his punchy carries and line-breaking presence. Assuming full fitness, he is an automatic pick and brings much-needed balance to a centre partnership that has struggled without him.

12 – Seb Atkinson

Few have taken their chance this summer quite like Atkinson. He has blended hard graft with impressive handling skills, all backed by elite-level fitness. Still just 23, but he has shown maturity beyond his years. Looks like a long-term option and a necessary change after Henry Slade's recent struggles.

11 – Immanuel Feyi-Waboso

His summer was disrupted by a red card against France XV, but Feyi-Waboso’s talent is undeniable. After returning against the USA, he looks back in rhythm. England’s most exciting winger and probably their most dangerous attacking threat should be starting.

10 – George Ford

Ford is still the man for the big moments. With Fin Smith rising and Owen Farrell in the picture, the competition is fierce. But Ford's control against Argentina reminded everyone what he offers. Unless Borthwick leans toward youth, he starts. This was definitely the hardest position to pick, but form has to take priority for Borthwick, which cannot be disputed in the case of Ford.

9 – Alex Mitchell

No debate here. Mitchell has cemented himself as England’s best scrum-half. Quick to the breakdown and capable of breaking a game open, he brings a tempo the team badly needs.

1 – Ellis Genge

Genge continues to lead by example. He is dominant in the scrum, a wrecking ball with ball in hand, and has held strong form during the Lions tour. Still England’s top choice at loosehead.

2 – Jamie George

George remains England’s rock at hooker. His lineout throwing is top-tier, and his leadership—especially in big Tests—is invaluable. Even with others emerging, he remains the steadying presence this squad depends on.

3 – Will Stuart

He has quietly been one of England’s most consistent forwards. Stuart’s scrummaging has improved, and he is more mobile than most expect. A reliable presence for Bath and this summer with the Lions.

4 – Maro Itoje

Captain, leader and heartbeat of the team. Whether England are on the front foot or under pressure, Itoje brings intensity and world-class work rate. The first name on the teamsheet.

5 – George Martin

Martin’s return from injury could be key. Physical and powerful, he is the ideal second row partner for Itoje. If he is fit, he starts. England are a better side with him involved.

6 – Ollie Chessum

With Martin back, Chessum may shift to blindside. Regardless of position, he is a must-pick. His Lions form has been outstanding. He is smart, physical, and gives England serious presence in the pack.

7 – Tom Curry

There were doubts about his selection for the Lions opener, but Curry silenced them with a stunning performance against the Wallabies. He brings relentless effort and has everything needed to excel in the position. At his best, he lifts the entire back row and team.

8 – Ben Earl

Earl has not hit top form with the Lions, but he has done enough to stay ahead. His pace and energy keep him in the side. That said, Tom Willis is applying pressure.

16 – Luke Cowan-Dickie

Cowan-Dickie returns as the bench hooker. He is powerful and experienced. England will want his physicality and big-game know-how later in matches.

17 – Fin Baxter

Baxter stepped up impressively this summer. He was solid in the set piece and active in open play. England look in good hands with him coming through. He is part of the next generation.

18 – Joe Heyes

Heyes made the most of his chance. He scrummed well and was active around the park during Genge and Stuart’s Lions absence. He is the next prop in line and deserves a bench spot.

19 – Chandler Cunningham-South

Cunningham-South gives England bench impact. He can play lock or back row, and Borthwick clearly values his versatility. Still only 22, but looks ready for more responsibility this Autumn.

20 – Ben Curry

Like his brother, Ben Curry is tireless and reliable. He puts in a shift every time, tackles hard, and makes the breakdown his own. A great option off the bench for England. Henry Pollock may get some minutes, but Curry presents a safer option. A 6/2 bench could also accommodate Pollock.

21 – Jack van Poortvliet

Van Poortvliet brings control and clarity. Randall might offer more flair, but JvP is the safer pick. Dependable under pressure, he is likely to wear the 21 shirt.

22 – Fin Smith

It feels harsh to leave him out of the starting lineup, but he must be in the 23. Smith is confident and maturing fast. A future starter who is already pushing Ford close. It does mean that there is no Marcus Smith in this squad though.

23 – Elliot Daly

Daly is the ultimate utility back. His ability to cover centre, wing, and fullback gives Borthwick real flexibility. He was in top form for the Lions before injury and rarely lets England down.

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