England rugby coach Steve Borthwick has implemented ten team changes and two positional shifts for the upcoming match against Japan. This follows an impressive showing against Australia last week, where England's discipline, set piece, and try-scoring were highlighted.
Borthwick's selection includes Henry Pollock starting, alongside Max Ojomoh and Will Joseph, who are noted for their strong domestic form. Ojomoh, who was man of the match in his last appearance against Argentina, returns after nearly a year.
The team maintains an experienced core with George Ford, Freddie Steward, Henry Slade, and Jack van Poortvliet. Van Poortvliet was considered man of the match against Australia.
The changes were partly due to injuries, with Fin Smith, Fin Baxter, and Tommy Freeman being rested to prepare for the match against the All Blacks. The match against Japan is seen as a crucial step in the Nations Championship, with permutations for the finals weekend expected to become clearer after this weekend.