Ben Earl replaced at number 8 for England game to play Fiji

 Wales face a big opener vs Argentina but have a strong chance to top this pool. Samoa adds intrigue as the dark horse.

Their report suggests the powerful Harlequins forward has earned 19 Test caps so far, featuring mainly as a flanker or from the bench. But he’s now in line for a first start at the base of the scrum — a position he knows well from club level — as Borthwick looks to deepen his options behind Ben Earl.

The selection call comes in the wake of Tom Willis’ decision to reject a contract extension at Saracens and rejoin Bordeaux. Willis’ return to France means he’ll be ineligible for England next season — a major setback for Borthwick, who had pencilled him in as a long-term No.8 option. He's since blacklisted the Saracens forward.

That’s opened the door for Cunningham-South, who didn’t feature in last weekend’s 25–7 win over Australia, to make his mark. The 21-year-old is seen as a powerful carrier and an ideal fit for England’s physical approach heading into the autumn.

Borthwick’s selection puzzle doesn’t stop there. Both Freddie Steward (finger) and Tom Roebuck (ankle) are injury doubts after the Wallabies clash. The England boss is giving them every chance to prove their fitness before the team is officially named on Thursday.

If either player is ruled out, expect a reshuffle. Marcus Smith could shift to full-back, with George Furbank and Elliot Daly unavailable. Meanwhile, Henry Arundell, back from his French spell with Racing 92, is a strong contender to return on the wing.

A final decision will come after England’s last training session on Thursday morning — but all signs point to Cunningham-South getting his first start in the No.8 shirt.

Organisers have confirmed the Rugby World Cup Draw will take place on 3 December 2025 – and it’s set to be a blockbuster

With the new six-pool format confirmed, here’s a projected draw based on current World Rugby Rankings — with Wales sitting in Band 2.

South Africa (Band 1) — Reigning World Champions, famed for their physical dominance and tactical brilliance.

Australia (Band 2) — Rugby hosts with a rich history and a passionate home crowd.

Japan (Band 3) — High-paced attackers who stunned the world in 2019.

Portugal (Band 4) — Rising force in European rugby, known for their scrappy determination.

? Storyline: South Africa vs Australia could be a World Cup final preview — Portugal and Japan will battle for third place.

Ireland (Band 1) — Consistently at the top of world rugby, masters of strategic play.

Scotland (Band 2) — Brave and battle-hardened, with a history of giant-killing performances.

Spain (Band 3) — Emerging side bringing flair and unpredictability.

Romania (Band 4) — Rugby stalwarts with physical forward packs.

? Storyline: Ireland and Scotland renew their rivalry in a high-stakes pool. Spain could cause an upset.

New Zealand (Band 1) — The All Blacks, rugby royalty with speed, skill, and killer instinct.

Fiji (Band 2) — Fijian flair and athleticism make them dangerous in any matchup.

USA (Band 3) — Big, athletic squad with growing ambitions.

Hong Kong China (Band 4) — Developing team looking to make an impact on the world stage.

? Storyline: Expect fireworks between New Zealand and Fiji; USA and Hong Kong will battle for the third spot.

England (Band 1) — Powerful, well-drilled side with a deep tactical playbook.

Italy (Band 2) — Tough, resilient side with big scrummaging power.

Tonga (Band 3) — Physical, passionate, unpredictable warriors.

Canada (Band 4) — Experienced team, looking to build consistency.

? Storyline: England should lead this pool, but Tonga’s unpredictability makes this one dangerous.

France (Band 1) — World Cup hosts in 2023, dynamic attackers, crowd favourites.

Georgia (Band 2) — Known for a dominant forward pack and fierce defence.

Uruguay (Band 3) — South American fighters with resilience to match their passion.

Zimbabwe (Band 4) — Underdogs aiming to shock the world.

? Storyline: France's depth makes them favourites, but Georgia could make it interesting.

Argentina (Band 1) — Tough, skilled, and battle-tested with World Cup pedigree.

Wales (Band 2) — Six Nations contenders with a blend of power and precision.

Chile (Band 3) — South American dark horse making their mark.

Samoa (Band 4) — Fierce underdogs with a proud history and attacking flair.

? Storyline: