Tom Curry is set to start England’s game against Japan at Twickenham this Sunday, just two weeks after being left out of the game against Australia.
The decision to deploy Currie as a blindside flanker is one of two changes made since England lost 29-20 to South Africa last Saturday, with George Furbank also returning to full-back.
Despite suffering his second concussion of the season and fifth in two years, Curry was selected over Chandler Cunningham-South, who will now sit on the bench.
Furbank’s promotion came at the expense of Freddie Steward, who had returned to play for South Africa due to his aerial skills but was now left out of the squad altogether.
Steward’s aerial ability is de-emphasized as Japan’s fast-paced style of play puts pressure on the defence.
Coach Steve Borthwick will be looking for more from Furbank, who will act as a second playmaker alongside Marcus Smith, after poor performances against New Zealand and Australia.
Asher Opoku-Fordjour is expected to make his Test debut off the bench, having been called up to the training squad when Joe Marler announced his retirement from Test matches ahead of the opener against New Zealand.
Rising star Opoku-Fordjour joined the England squad as tighthead prop cover after veteran Dan Cole missed out on a place on the bench following his triumphant performance with England Under-20s, who won the Junior World Cup last summer.
In another reshuffle, George Ford was removed from the substitute list, with rookie Fin Smith taking his place as flyhalf back-up for this season’s opening autumn game.
England, who have suffered their worst slump since 2018 with five consecutive defeats, are hoping to turn the tide.
But manager Steve Borthwick warned of a tough opponent. “We expect a tough challenge from a team that plays fast and at a tempo.
“Japan is a dangerous team, so it’s important to execute the game plan and stay focused throughout the 80 minutes.”
