Matt Dawson wants underperforming England stars dropped for Rugby World Cup third-place tie

Rugby News
Monday, 23 October 2023 at 07:56
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Matt Dawson, the Rugby World Cup champion, is urging England's head coach, Steve Borthwick, to bench his seasoned players and give fringe players a chance in the third-place play-off against Argentina this Friday.
While Borthwick may be inclined to field a formidable starting XV to secure a bronze medal, Dawson suggests that significant rotation could yield more significant long-term benefits.
Friday's third-place play-off against Argentina is a funny sort of fixture,” Dawson wrote for the BBC.
“It might be one more for fringe players to try and press their case before next year's Six Nations. It probably won't be Steve Borthwick's style, but I would approach it almost like a Barbarians fixture.
“This England squad will never be together again. This tournament is unique to those in that camp.
"I would give them the space and freedom to bond and socialise together as people, rather than players. Let them create more memories and then go out and chase a win together.”

5 England players who should be dropped, and who should replace them

#1. Henry Arundell replaces Jonny May

England's offensive struggles have been glaringly evident in virtually every match, except for the standout performance by the lightning-fast Arundell, who carved his name in the annals of history with a jaw-dropping five-try spectacle against Chile.
The ex-London Irish prodigy, despite his recent one-year commitment to Racing 92 due to the Exiles' unfortunate demise in May, is set to be granted a unique opportunity to extend his England tenure.
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Henry Arundell of England during the England World Cup Squad Announcement at Twickenham Stadium, London on Monday 7th August 2023 (Photo: George Beck/PPAUK)
At the tender age of 20, it feels like eons have passed since he wowed the world with an electrifying end-to-end try against Toulon, a moment that instantly went viral and left even the hard-to-please Eddie Jones brimming with admiration. Arundell could very well be the ignition spark that England has been desperately yearning for.
As for May, he has been a remarkable servant to the England team. Nonetheless, this World Cup undoubtedly marks the conclusion of a spectacular international career, one where he will bid adieu as his nation's second-highest all-time try-scorer.
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#2. Bevan Rodd replaces Joe Marler

Our eyes have been on Joe Marler and Ellis Genge for the past couple of years. With a year or two in the squad but limited game time, it's high time we take the plunge and see if Bevan Rodd can hold his own at the international level against the formidable Argentina pack.
This move promises to provide Head Coach Borthwick with valuable insights, far more than relying on his seasoned lieutenants.
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Try Celebrations for Bevan Rodd of Sale Sharks as he goes over for a try during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby Final Match between Saracens and Sale Sharks at Twickenham Stadium on 27 May 2023. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK

#3. Ollie Lawrence replaces Manu Tuilagi

Manu has had his fair share of regrettable moments throughout his England career, often seemingly escaping consequences thanks to his exceptional skills.
However, he's no longer the sole dominant force in the centre position. It's only fair to acknowledge that Ollie Lawrence, who has been remarkably underutilised in the Rugby World Cup, should have had more opportunities.
The Bath standout rightfully claimed the Premiership Player of the Year award for his stellar on-field performances. It's high time we witness that prowess more frequently when he dons the white England jersey.
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A frustrated Ollie Lawrence of England during the Guinness Six Nations match between England and France at Twickenham Stadium, Twickenham, London on Saturday 11th March 2023 | Photo: James Fearn/PPAUK.

#4. Marcus Smith replaces Owen Farrell

Smith's meteoric ascent has positioned him as the prospective future England fly-half, demanding an opportunity to refine his decision-making and game management skills at the highest echelons of the sport.
Entrusting England's captain, Owen Farrell, or the seasoned George Ford with this task would yield minimal benefits, but for Smith, this could be a pivotal moment in his development as a player. It's time to bestow the keys to the kingdom upon this young talent.
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Marcus Smith of England during the England World Cup Squad Announcement at Twickenham Stadium, London on Monday 7th August 2023 (Photo: George Beck/PPAUK)

#5. Theo Dan replaces Jamie George

Jamie George has completed four full 80-minute stints in this tournament, and setting aside two errant throws from yesterday, his performance has been nothing short of outstanding. Nonetheless, it's crucial to recognize that neither he nor Luke Cowan-Dickie will be part of England's plans for the 2027 campaign.
Therefore, the moment has arrived to introduce Theo Dan into the mix, with the possibility of having Jack Walker as a bench option. Dan possesses dynamic qualities, but to reach the desired level and help propel England back to their best, he needs substantial experience in high-pressure matches, perhaps even contests for Six Nations titles.
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Theo Dan of England during the Summer Nations Series Rugby match between Wales and England at Principality Stadium on August 5, 2023 in Cardiff, Wales. Photo: Phil Mingo/PPAUK
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