England's Back Three Shines but Injuries Cloud Borthwick's Plans 2026

England's first-choice back three of Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, Tommy Freeman and George Furbank finally took the field together in the record rout of Australia, but injuries to Feyi-Waboso and Furbank have left head coach Steve Borthwick facing a selection dilemma ahead of the clash with Japan.

Rugby, at its heart, is a simple game. Win the collisions and you’ll more than likely win the match. Rule the skies, own the floor and the chances are you’ll end up on the right side of the ledger. Put square pegs in square holes and you can achieve the sort of attacking fluidity required for a record score against Australia.

The complicated bit, once you stop trying to put them in round holes, is keeping those square pegs fit. England’s emphatic win over the Wallabies on Sunday was the first time in two years Borthwick has been able to field a back-three of Feyi-Waboso, Freeman and Furbank. It was also the first time ever that they have lined up with 11, 14 and 15 on their respective backs. It will not be the last but it was a fleeting glimpse nonetheless.

Injury Blow: Feyi-Waboso Out for Autumn

Feyi-Waboso sustained an ankle injury that will rule him out for the rest of the autumn campaign. The exciting winger had been a constant threat with ball in hand, but his time on the field was both a reminder of how devastating a runner he can be and how susceptible to injury he is.

His absence is a major blot on England’s copybook. Borthwick must now find a replacement who can replicate Feyi-Waboso’s explosiveness in the wide channels.

Furbank Doubtful, Freeman May Be Rested

Furbank has a groin problem that will keep him sidelined against Japan. Given Borthwick is considering resting some players, it may be that Freeman sits out on Saturday. It could conceivably be an entirely different back three against Eddie Jones’s side.

This presents an opportunity for fringe players to stake a claim, but it also disrupts the continuity that the coaching staff have been trying to build.

Why the Back Three Matters

The back three is crucial in the modern game, providing attacking width and a last line of defense. England’s ability to field their preferred trio had been hampered by injuries and form, making this glimpse all the more tantalizing.

With the World Cup on the horizon, establishing combinations and building depth is paramount. Borthwick will be hoping his key men return to fitness sooner rather than later.

What to Watch Next

All eyes will be on Borthwick’s team selection for the Japan match. Will he opt for experience or give youth a chance? How will the new-look back three fare against a dangerous Japanese side?

One thing is certain: England’s depth will be tested, and the response could define their autumn campaign. The background to this story is set out in Celebrity: latest articles.

Key Takeaways

• England’s first-choice back three started together for the first time in two years against Australia.
• Immanuel Feyi-Waboso will miss the rest of the autumn campaign with an ankle injury.
• George Furbank is doubtful for the Japan match due to a groin problem.
• Tommy Freeman may be rested as Borthwick considers rotation.
• Borthwick faces a selection headache ahead of the clash with Eddie Jones’s Japan.

Comparison of Back Three Options