Two established England stars set to be dropped for 2024 Six Nations with FOUR players recalled

With a keen eye on rejuvenation and tactical evolution, Borthwick is set to recall four players who have caught his attention. These individuals bring a fresh perspective, skill set, and energy to the national team.

However, the anticipation is not without its surprises, as two major stars will likely find themselves dropped from the roster. In this dynamic shift, Borthwick aims to blend experience with emerging talent, crafting a squad that reflects his vision for England's rugby future.

The stage is set for a thrilling Six Nations campaign that promises both excitement and strategic innovation.

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Having seen many of his close pals depart Sandy Park last summer for pastures new, the 30-year-old playmaker is now regarded as one the senior statesmen in Devon, helping to mould the club’s next golden generation.

Exeter boss Rob Baxter says Slade is showing form that could earn him an international recall after the 30-year-old centre was overlooked by England for the World Cup.

"People will probably be surprised because when you get left out of that international arena when you've been part of it, you kind of have only two choices," Baxter told BBC Sport.

"You can kind of plod along back into that post-international career and you kind of get on with things or you go, 'right, I am going to reinvent myself a bit and I am going to think about what it was that got me in the England set-up initially and what it was that had people talking about me and why I became such a good player', and to me it looks exactly what Sladey's doing."

Adam Radwan, the exciting winger from Newcastle Falcons, has been making waves with his electrifying performances. The 24-year-old possesses exceptional pace, footwork, and try-scoring prowess that can add a dynamic edge to England's backline.

Radwan's ability to create opportunities out of seemingly routine plays and his knack for finishing with clinical precision make him a compelling candidate for a Six Nations call-up. Borthwick may see Radwan as the injection of speed and flair needed to ignite England's attacking game.

One player who has consistently proven himself on the field is Joe Launchbury of Harlequins. 

The 32-year-old lock is renowned for his exceptional work rate, leadership qualities, and proficiency in both set-piece and open play. Launchbury’s physicality and ability to disrupt opposition ball make him a valuable asset in the forward pack. 

Despite some injury setbacks, Launchbury’s experience and skill set make him a compelling choice for a recall, providing stability and expertise to England’s second-row options.

Another Harlequins player deserving of a recall is the versatile back-row forward, Alex Dombrandt. Known for his athleticism, powerful ball-carrying, and work rate, Dombrandt has been a standout performer for both club and country.

His skill set allows him to contribute across the park, making him a valuable asset in both attacking and defensive phases. Borthwick may find Dombrandt's dynamic playing style and ability to adapt to different roles an essential addition to England's back-row options.

In August, Borthwick asserted that he had never witnessed Vunipola in better shape, but the reality in France during the Rugby World Cup, once he was cleared of the suspension that ruled him out of the opener, painted a different picture.

Vunipola's ball-carrying proved ineffective, reaching a low point with a game-ending knock-on against South Africa, and he generally seemed out of sync with the unfolding events. A notable instance was his positioning after replacing Curry against the Springboks, resulting in England conceding immediately from the ensuing lineout play. With the resurgent form of Alex Dombrandt, it's probable that Vunipola will once again find himself sidelined by Borthwick.

He never found success in France during the Rugby World Cup, experiencing only one lacklustre start against the Chileans and nothing more. It seemed like Steve Borthwick had abandoned faith in the swift player towards the end of the tournament, with the Saracens man not even being taken into consideration for selection.

In the storied history of Rugby's Greatest Championship, exceptional leaders have emerged—warriors of various forms, be they agile half-backs, towering second rows, or fearless flankers.

Our latest quiz invites you to identify those who have captained their nations to Guinness Six Nations glory. It's worth noting that in certain instances, there may be multiple captains from the same year due to factors such as injuries and rotation.

Surnames only will be accepted.