England head into the Autumn Nations Series riding a wave of confidence after a summer to remember – back-to-back wins over Argentina on their own patch and a ruthless dismantling of the USA.
Steve Borthwick’s men have even more reason to be buzzing, with a number of England stars catching the eye on the British & Irish Lions tour, adding depth, belief, and real competition for places.
But make no mistake – the road ahead is brutal. England are braced for clashes with Australia and New Zealand, a Fiji outfit capable of fireworks from anywhere on the pitch, and an Argentina side desperate for revenge.
With the Premiership season back in full swing, the Lions tour still ongoing, and key players returning from injury, Borthwick has some big calls to make in selection.
One major boost is the return of Ollie Lawrence. The Bath powerhouse is back in the mix after six months out with an Achilles injury that cruelly ended his Lions dream in March. Now, he’s got his sights set on making up for lost time in the England midfield.
It might feel a little early, but here’s our prediction for how England could shape up when the whistle blows this autumn.
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.
