England Set to Test New Combinations Against Fiji at Twickenham

Posted : 08 November 2025

England will face Fiji at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, on Saturday, 8 November, with kick-off scheduled for 17:40 GMT, as head coach Steve Borthwick continues reshaping his squad in preparation for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

Borthwick has introduced seven changes to the starting lineup, combining enforced absences with tactical rotation as part of a wider plan to build depth and versatility within the squad. Freddie Steward misses out due to a hand injury, while Tom Roebuck is sidelined with an ankle problem. Long-serving lock Maro Itoje is also named on the bench after sustaining a minor knock.

The reshuffle sees Fin Smith of Northampton Saints handed the starting fly-half role ahead of George Ford, who is omitted from the matchday squad. Marcus Smith, meanwhile, continues his adaptation to the full-back role as England explore new positional combinations.

Borthwick’s approach signals a long-term focus on flexibility and internal competition rather than short-term continuity. With England currently on an eight-match winning streak, the head coach is using this period of stability to test players in new roles and identify those capable of thriving under pressure.

In the forwards, Chandler Cunningham-South earns a start at number eight despite limited experience in the position, as he looks to establish himself as a potential successor to Tom Willis, now playing in France. On the bench, Henry Arundell is the only backline replacement, meaning Ben Earl or Fin Smith could be asked to shift positions if injuries arise during the game.

The broader goal, Borthwick insists, is to create a side built on power, tempo, and adaptability—qualities that defined South Africa’s World Cup-winning team in 2023. England’s evolving style emphasizes athleticism and full-squad contribution over reliance on a fixed first XV.

However, Fiji will pose a stern test. The Pacific Islanders return to Twickenham having famously defeated England 30–22 in August 2023, a result that broke new ground for Fijian rugby and ended England’s aura of invincibility at home. Their backline remains among the most exciting in world rugby, featuring the explosive Josua Tuisova, the creative Kalaveti Ravouvou, and the elusive Jiuta Wainiqolo, currently the Top 14’s leading try-scorer.

While England aim to maintain momentum and refine their tactical identity, Fiji’s mix of raw power, creativity, and unpredictability ensures this encounter will be anything but routine. The fixture represents another crucial step in Borthwick’s plan to build a deeper, more adaptable England squad capable of challenging the world’s best by 2027.

England Set to Test New Combinations Against Fiji at Twickenham

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