England Head Coach Steve Borthwick Makes Radical Team Changes Ahead of Italy Clash
Rome, Italy – March 3, 2026 – England head coach Steve Borthwick has dramatically overhauled his team for Saturday’s Six Nations match against Italy, making nine personnel changes and three positional switches following a disappointing 42-21 defeat to Ireland. The sweeping changes include an entirely novel backline, with Fin Smith starting at fly-half in place of George Ford, who has been dropped from the matchday 23. Only Tommy Freeman remains from the previous backline, but he has been moved from wing to outside centre. Borthwick’s hand was partly forced by injuries to Alex Mitchell and Ollie Lawrence, but the changes signal a clear attempt to revitalize a team that has suffered back-to-back losses to Scotland and Ireland, effectively ending their title hopes. Ben Earl will win his 50th cap at No. 8. England has never lost to Italy in 32 previous meetings.
Borthwick Overhauls England Squad with Nine Changes for Italy Clash
Steve Borthwick has dramatically reshaped the England team ahead of their crucial Six Nations encounter with Italy, making nine changes to the starting lineup following a disappointing run of form.
Radical Changes Signal Desperation
The sweeping changes represent England’s biggest shake-up for a Six Nations match ever, signaling a clear response to the 42-21 defeat against Ireland that effectively ended their title hopes. Borthwick is clearly seeking a turnaround in Rome, and has not held back in making alterations to the squad.
Smith Takes the Helm at Fly-Half
Fin Smith will make his first start at fly-half since the autumn, replacing George Ford who has been completely dropped from the matchday 23. Smith, a British and Irish Lions playmaker, will be tasked with revitalizing a struggling England backline. This move indicates a shift in strategy, potentially looking towards the future with a younger, dynamic player at the pivotal fly-half position.
Pro Tip: Dropping a seasoned player like Ford demonstrates a coach’s willingness to take risks when faced with mounting pressure. What we have is a common tactic in high-stakes sports scenarios.
Latest-Glance Backline Unveiled
The backline has undergone a near-complete transformation, with only Tommy Freeman surviving from the Ireland defeat, albeit in a new role at outside centre. Cadan Murley and Tom Roebuck will start on the wings, while Elliot Daly takes his place at full-back, and Ben Spencer will partner Smith at scrum-half. This entirely new combination of players raises questions about cohesion but also offers a fresh start.
Pack Receives Strategic Adjustments
Three changes have been made to the pack, with Jamie George, Alex Coles, and Guy Pepper all promoted to the starting XV. Tom Curry will move to openside flanker, and Ben Earl will take on the number eight role, earning his 50th cap in the process. These adjustments suggest Borthwick is aiming for greater physicality and impact at the breakdown.
Italy Present a Growing Threat
England boast a perfect record of 32 wins against Italy, however, Gonzalo Quesada’s Italy side are a significantly improved team. They have beaten Scotland and pushed Ireland close this tournament, and will be a formidable opponent at the Stadio Olimpico. The Azzurri are smelling blood and aiming for a historic first victory over England.
Did you know? Italy’s recent performances mark a turning point in their rugby history, demonstrating the impact of consistent investment and strategic development.
Borthwick Confident Despite Challenges
Borthwick expressed confidence in the selected team, stating they are prepared for a “sizeable test” in Rome. He believes the chosen players will deliver the level of performance England are striving for. However, the pressure is mounting on the England head coach following back-to-back defeats to Scotland and Ireland.
England Team to Face Italy
England: E Daly, T Roebuck, T Freeman, S Atkinson, C Murley; F Smith, B Spencer; E Genge, J George, J Heyes, M Itoje (capt), A Coles, G Pepper, T Curry, B Earl.
Replacements: L Cowan-Dickie, B Rodd, T Davison, O Chessum, S Underhill, H Pollock, J van Poortvliet, M Smith.
FAQ
Q: How many changes has Borthwick made to the England team?
A: Borthwick has made nine changes to the personnel and three positional switches.
Q: Who is starting at fly-half for England?
A: Fin Smith will start at fly-half.
Q: Has George Ford been dropped from the squad entirely?
A: Yes, George Ford has been dropped from the matchday 23.
Q: What is Italy’s recent form like?
A: Italy have beaten Scotland and run Ireland close in the current Six Nations tournament.
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