The 2026 Nations Championship has provided an opportunity to assess the performances of England's players, with a particular focus on the key debates and dilemmas surrounding their selection and strategy. Here's an in-depth analysis of the players, with a heavy emphasis on personal commentary and interpretation.
Outside Backs
Marcus Smith: Smith's performance at full-back was a standout, showcasing his adaptability and growing comfort in the position. His ability to improve with each Test, especially in the new attack where he was given more freedom, is a testament to his skill. The fact that he also played scrum-half adds to his versatility and makes him a valuable asset to the team. (8/10)
Immanuel Feyi-Waboso: Feyi-Waboso's role shift, allowing him to come off the wing and get his hands on the ball, brought out his best performance. This freedom and increased involvement in the game's flow highlight the need for England to utilize his skills effectively in the future. (8/10)
Tommy Freeman: Freeman's return to the wing proved to be beneficial, as he thrived in the aerial game against Fiji and Argentina. His ability to work with Smith and contribute to the team's success is notable. (7/10)
Cadan Murley: Murley's campaign was cut short due to injury, but his performance against the Springboks was solid. His ability to hold his own at this level bodes well for his future. (5/10)
Noah Caluori: Caluori's debut was impressive, as he took the positive approach and actively sought opportunities. His try and assist against Fiji, despite limited playing time against Argentina, showcase his potential. (6/10)
Centres
Henry Slade: Slade's performance was a reminder of his capabilities at this level. His positive impact on the team's attack and solid defense make him a valuable asset, and his form in the PREM carries over to the England jersey. (7/10)
Seb Atkinson: Atkinson's campaign was his best with the Test team, showcasing his ability to settle into his role and contribute to the attacking system. His strong work in defense further cements his importance to the team. (7/10)
Benhard Janse van Rensburg: Janse van Rensburg's maiden caps were promising, with a highlight being his try against Fiji. His dual-threat playmaking and carrying skills add depth to England's attack. (6/10)
Half-backs
Fin Smith: Smith's campaign was a significant one, as he settled the debate around the number 10 shirt. His vice-grip over the England attack, clever kicks, and impressive defense make him a strong contender for the position. (8/10)
Jack van Poortvliet: Van Poortvliet's performance was a standout, as he executed his role flawlessly and injected tempo into the attack. His ability to snipe around the fringes of the ruck adds a layer of threat. (7/10)
Alex Mitchell: Mitchell's return from injury was cut short due to another setback. His performance against the Springboks was challenging, but his return ahead of schedule is a positive sign. (5/10)
Back-row
Ben Earl: Earl's impact on the England side is undeniable, as he consistently takes on the brunt of the carrying load and contributes to defensive work. His performance this July was superb. (8/10)
Guy Pepper: Pepper's growth into his role is evident, as he adds threat and defense around the breakdown. His consistent performance and approach would please the head coach. (7/10)
Ollie Chessum: Chessum's shift to the back-row has been successful, as he excels in tight exchanges and lineouts. His importance to the team is reflected in his full playing time. (7/10)
Henry Pollock: Pollock's performance this July has left Borthwick with a dilemma. His quietness against the Springboks and impactful displays against Fiji and Argentina showcase his unique threat. (7/10)
Tom Curry: Curry's efforts were solid but not spectacular, and he never quite set the pitch alight. (6/10)
Locks
Alex Coles: Coles' performance was consistent and impressive, as he stepped up as England's main defensive leader. His involvement in the loose and tackles showcase his growth. (7/10)
George Martin: Martin's return to the Test stage was seamless, as he quickly stepped into his enforcer role and added ballast to the pack. (7/10)
Charlie Ewels: Ewels' cameo against the Springboks was uneventful but solid. (5/10)
Front-row
Joe Heyes: Heyes' performance at tighthead was exceptional, as he rivals back-rowers in defense and contributes to a dominant scrum. (8/10)
Asher Opoku-Fordjour: Opoku-Fordjour's work this July was positive, as he scrummaged well and brought attacking intent. His injury against Argentina was a setback. (6/10)
George Kloska: Kloska's Test debut against Fiji was promising, but the task against Los Pumas was more challenging. His efforts bode well for future involvement. (6/10)
Jamie George: George's consistency and leadership were evident, as he led the team well and maintained his strong lineout and scrum performance. (7/10)
Luke Cowan-Dickie: Cowan-Dickie's performance was solid and consistent, showcasing his ability to hold his own around the park and at the set-piece. (6/10)
Ellis Genge: Genge's performance was impressive, as he scrummaged superbly and brought physicality to the tight exchanges, particularly in the carry. (8/10)
Beno Obano: Obano's limited playing time due to injury is a shame, as he has been among the best props in the league. (5/10)
Emmanuel Iyogun: Iyogun's Test debut was promising, but a yellow card marred his performance. (5/10)
In conclusion, the 2026 Nations Championship has provided valuable insights into England's players and their potential. The debates and dilemmas surrounding their selection and strategy will continue to shape the team's future, with Borthwick's dilemma over Pollock being a notable example.
