We are where we are, this is the best England 23. If we show up we can win,if we don't win but we play well, that's the way it is. Well done Borthwick, I expect to be entertained by the match which is great, given the excrutiation involved in watching England football under Southgate. Borthwick played pragmatic boring rugby in the world cup, and has evolved admirably, We are now lions led by lions. If we lose with our best performance fair enough.
What an endorsement of Sleightholme and his ability to slot into the systems. Must feel for Roebuck but Sleightholme clearly offers something in the pace department and Roebuck has plenty of time on his side. Overall it's the best team we have right now, really happy with the selections.
Heard from Borthwick Giles , that the coaches are very excited how sleightholme will fit into the defensive system as to his strengths and how he’s nearer to the perfect fit for a winger into Felix jones system . After a couple of weeks training it looks like he wants to give him the opportunity . Yes unlucky for Roebuck , but like you said time on his side.
Firstly, that was nearly 2 years ago and Secondly, he came on late in the game when NZL when down to 14 for most of it. There wasn't much that he did besides getting on the end of 2 flukes. No evidence of great general all round play or scrummaging
First time looking in the comments and seeing so much positivity for so long. This is the biggest endorsement for Borthwick, I think it’s a great team and a great series. Let’s go 👍
Another great video - really appreciate your informed and honest views 👍🏻 It’s going to be a very interesting match later. Huge respect for the AB’s and I’ve loved seeing England’s improved performances recently, especially with the new boys coming in. Come on England!!! 🏴🏉🌹💪🏻
Let’s go 🌹 Love the squad selection. I do wish Baxter was given an opportunity to play his debut against Japan as it’s a big game to throw yourself into. However I’m a very happy Englishman and my faith in Borthwick is continuing to build.
Love this selection; brave and shows a willingness to have a go. That's been missing from English rugby for a long, long time. We're probably playing into NZ's hands , but I'll take that in return for some excitement! Pleased to see Sleughtholme, although I'm a big Roebuck fan.
Agree it is the best choice. Pleased Borthwick rejects the Eddie Jones chop and change mantra and is building cohesion and consistency. But at the same time giving fantastic opportunities for Baxter, Finn Smith and Sleightholme to show they can raise their game and challenge for future starting slots... thumbs up on Borthwick again!
This is the best English Team I have ever seen and I’m 80,they were awesome so look out for Saturday’s to come,. If England don’t win I might have to change my mind. I loved the game every minute was played at such pace,unbelievable . Are my ABS up for it .❤❤❤❤
You know what, all the best to England and Borthswick for boldly naming an early team. Theyll have a red hot crack to win. The more pressure is actually on the All Blacks with expectations on an all time high. Win at all costs for the All Blacks as anythibg but is labelled a 'SHOCK LOSS!'. If the kiwis stumble, the outcry from Kirwan and his band of merry kiwi rugby fandom will be shattered. I wouod not be surprised with a win to each team.
Definitely agree that this is the best side from the squad. Would still like to see Freeman at 13 and Slightholme to the wing but we may well get to see that later in the game anyway, and I'm wondering if this is SB's medium term plan as well 🤔
If de Groot, Taylor and Lomax start for the All Blacks (Which is likely), then I'm afraid England might not have the scrum to match. But then they have to deal with the likes of Tamaiti Williams, Fletcher Newell, Pasilio Tosi or Tu'ungafasi and Aumua as bench options. If England are going to win this first test, they will need to score 30+ points IMO.
Yes, that's pretty much how I feel. The ABs are going to score tries, they are too good not to. So we need to score 3 or 4 tries minimum to have a chance. Any sort of scrum parity will be a huge win
Idk why Stuart gets so much stick. He is such a solid player that puts himself about in defence (especially). He IS a good scrummager and has never let England down. He is definitely one of the best tight heads England have to offer of the current crop. It could be worse guys - you could support Wales and have to deal with our level of strength of depth currently…
Great side, underhill is a 6 not a 7, big difference the front row will be huge. Our starting props are 26, the replacements are 23 and 145kg each. I hope you can handle the power, as a one eyed kiwi
If Marchant was still eligible, would you start him instead of Slade? Personally I feel like England were at the best under Eddie Jones when Joseph was cutting lines at pace from 13. Marchant seems to be the nearest replacement to him.
We do seem to have a squad with some potential now (albeit I still think we have left some talent at home). When I watch NZ U20s and Maoris, the all- blacks just have a conveyor belt of prime talent pouring in. I wonder if any player in the England team would make it into the NZ team if eligible? Still its a fantastic test (for both sides) and hopefully we can put in a performance. If we lose a la France in the 6N then not too worried. If we lose as per Scotland then its back to square one. Hopefully we can nick a win as per the Ireland game. Shame its not on terrestial TV.
Sleightholme needs to play out of his skin - very surprised he got in front of Roebuck. Roebuck is more versatile and played well last week. Apart from that a pretty good side. Front row is a worry- we are underpowered and not very mobile but hopefully the experience will see us through.
Funny enough, as an English man, I think differently to majority of my country men and see an England win here. Will be great game. Let's hope both our team avoid cards.
The real worry is the props Dan Cole and Joe Marler can't go on forever, I hope Fin Baxter does well on his debut but talk about a cauldron of fire. I don't see any real quality tightheads anywhere.
There are a few props (LH and TH) coming through via the A side and U20s, just a case of when they are deemed to be ready to make the step-up. In the meantime, I think Borthwick is right to stick with Cole and Marler at the moment and maybe start transitioning the likes of Sela, Haffar, Opoku-Fordjour and Fasogbon (and of course Baxter) in the autumn internationals.
@@davidrowe8747 I agree we still need Cole and Marler, but my worry is if the youngsters are going to be up to senior rugby anytime soon. perhaps we'll get an indication when the u20s play RSA next week.
Agreed. Its does look like the best side we can put out. But to me all it highlights is how weak we are. Not a SINGLE player would get near a NZ 2nd XV. Nowhere near. That front row for example almost beggars belief. What on earth has been happening at the RFU for the last 10 years if this is the best we can offer. NZ by 30.
Not true at all. I think Itoje and Martin would both have good cases to start as would Underhill. Mitchell also has a good case. If Ford was fit I would start him over Dmac. Feyi Waboso could as well. I’m a neutral as well. The only real weakness is the front row.
England thrashed NZ in the Japan World Cup which isn't that long ago so there's not a massive amount of difference but I do agree about our front 3 being weak, especially in depth... I'm fairly happy with the hookers, it's the props we need to sort out.
At least we won’t have to listen to Farrell whingeing about, well, everything. Have to laugh at Smith’s little girly fist, noting that he doesn’t do it when he is caught out of position, misses a tackle, avoids a ruck, or trips over his own feet. How he stays in the team is beyond me. Should be some interesting matches.
I think NZ will be to fast and strong and dominate the scrum , England got to many old players in the front row , i think Marcus Smith will have a tough time he is small and i think he will be hammered by the fast and strong forwards of NZ
We are where we are, this is the best England 23. If we show up we can win,if we don't win but we play well, that's the way it is. Well done Borthwick, I expect to be entertained by the match which is great, given the excrutiation involved in watching England football under Southgate.
Borthwick played pragmatic boring rugby in the world cup, and has evolved admirably,
We are now lions led by lions. If we lose with our best performance fair enough.
AB's fan here gud luck ENGLAND just can't wait to watch all the teams play go the AB's ❤
Looks like English...
Yeah I’m happy with this squad,shocked and delighted to see Baxter/Sleightholme included.Time to see how we fare in Dunedin 🙂
What an endorsement of Sleightholme and his ability to slot into the systems. Must feel for Roebuck but Sleightholme clearly offers something in the pace department and Roebuck has plenty of time on his side. Overall it's the best team we have right now, really happy with the selections.
Heard from Borthwick Giles , that the coaches are very excited how sleightholme will fit into the defensive system as to his strengths and how he’s nearer to the perfect fit for a winger into Felix jones system . After a couple of weeks training it looks like he wants to give him the opportunity . Yes unlucky for Roebuck , but like you said time on his side.
Worth remembering that Stuart played well in the draw against NZL back when we drew with them at Twickenham.
Firstly, that was nearly 2 years ago and Secondly, he came on late in the game when NZL when down to 14 for most of it. There wasn't much that he did besides getting on the end of 2 flukes. No evidence of great general all round play or scrummaging
Needs more consistency tighthead is not a position where you have one good game in three.
First time looking in the comments and seeing so much positivity for so long. This is the biggest endorsement for Borthwick, I think it’s a great team and a great series. Let’s go 👍
Another great video - really appreciate your informed and honest views 👍🏻 It’s going to be a very interesting match later. Huge respect for the AB’s and I’ve loved seeing England’s improved performances recently, especially with the new boys coming in. Come on England!!! 🏴🏉🌹💪🏻
Agreed fully, this is the best team we could hope for. Every single change I wanted to see has been made.
And I'm still worried we'll get smashed. 😂
ABs will be going in cold. I am expecting a very close game as best-case scenario.
The England front 3 are going to have to be at their absolute best!
Unusually, no complaints...
Let’s go 🌹
Love the squad selection.
I do wish Baxter was given an opportunity to play his debut against Japan as it’s a big game to throw yourself into. However I’m a very happy Englishman and my faith in Borthwick is continuing to build.
Everyone gave Quins no chance going to Bordeaux without Marler then Baxter got Tameifuna going backwards. Born for the pressure
Love this selection; brave and shows a willingness to have a go. That's been missing from English rugby for a long, long time. We're probably playing into NZ's hands , but I'll take that in return for some excitement! Pleased to see Sleughtholme, although I'm a big Roebuck fan.
Agree it is the best choice. Pleased Borthwick rejects the Eddie Jones chop and change mantra and is building cohesion and consistency. But at the same time giving fantastic opportunities for Baxter, Finn Smith and Sleightholme to show they can raise their game and challenge for future starting slots... thumbs up on Borthwick again!
As a springboks fan this is a very strong England squad
This is the best English Team I have ever seen and I’m 80,they were awesome so look out for Saturday’s to come,. If England don’t win I might have to change my mind. I loved the game every minute was played at such pace,unbelievable . Are my ABS up for it .❤❤❤❤
Yep fair play, that's about our best squad, such a shame we're not producing as a country at front row and centres, everywhere else is decent.
AB has a couple of powerful front row setups. England will struggle against them. NZ are talking about England's front row. NZ will be physical.
Second row and back row look exciting. Underhill always does well v the ABs
You know what, all the best to England and Borthswick for boldly naming an early team. Theyll have a red hot crack to win. The more pressure is actually on the All Blacks with expectations on an all time high. Win at all costs for the All Blacks as anythibg but is labelled a 'SHOCK LOSS!'. If the kiwis stumble, the outcry from Kirwan and his band of merry kiwi rugby fandom will be shattered. I wouod not be surprised with a win to each team.
ah,where would we be without the trolls.
Uh no, I don't think you know anything about how this game is being perceived. It wouldn't be a 'shock loss' and noone would be 'shattered'.
Definitely agree that this is the best side from the squad. Would still like to see Freeman at 13 and Slightholme to the wing but we may well get to see that later in the game anyway, and I'm wondering if this is SB's medium term plan as well 🤔
I agree, and I think freeman will end up playing 13 in the future.
Thanks for listing the team from 1-23 like a sane person 😅
What's wrong with 15-9 followed by 1-8?😂
I refuse to list or talk about teams backwards. It's unnecessarily confusing LOL
When was the last time England had no injuries? Genuinely unheard of
Genge? Chessum? Both would be in the 23
ford??
Love this squad, consistent but bold at the same time. Particularly relieved that Spencer is back over Randall.
Best part about this squad tgeres a couple og talent an skill cumin tru. And sum big quality forwards
If de Groot, Taylor and Lomax start for the All Blacks (Which is likely), then I'm afraid England might not have the scrum to match. But then they have to deal with the likes of Tamaiti Williams, Fletcher Newell, Pasilio Tosi or Tu'ungafasi and Aumua as bench options.
If England are going to win this first test, they will need to score 30+ points IMO.
Yes, that's pretty much how I feel. The ABs are going to score tries, they are too good not to. So we need to score 3 or 4 tries minimum to have a chance. Any sort of scrum parity will be a huge win
We dont know yet do we, this nz side has never played together before
I'll be at the game on Saturday. Looking for a solid win for the ABs.
You should feel confident for a win. However, accept the loss gracefully if it does happen and don't look for excuses
The is the best in form Team and bench he can pick so good luck to the boyz😊
Idk why Stuart gets so much stick. He is such a solid player that puts himself about in defence (especially). He IS a good scrummager and has never let England down. He is definitely one of the best tight heads England have to offer of the current crop. It could be worse guys - you could support Wales and have to deal with our level of strength of depth currently…
Wait for the field where the party will begin, Let's see if England can do what you all are hoping they can, good luck, you need it we don't.
Pleased to see Spencer given an opportunity off the bench, he's got tons of ability. This game will be high tempo so quality replacements will be key.
Great side, underhill is a 6 not a 7, big difference the front row will be huge. Our starting props are 26, the replacements are 23 and 145kg each. I hope you can handle the power, as a one eyed kiwi
No, you don't. Think you might have a game on your hands mate.
If Marchant was still eligible, would you start him instead of Slade? Personally I feel like England were at the best under Eddie Jones when Joseph was cutting lines at pace from 13. Marchant seems to be the nearest replacement to him.
We do seem to have a squad with some potential now (albeit I still think we have left some talent at home). When I watch NZ U20s and Maoris, the all- blacks just have a conveyor belt of prime talent pouring in. I wonder if any player in the England team would make it into the NZ team if eligible? Still its a fantastic test (for both sides) and hopefully we can put in a performance. If we lose a la France in the 6N then not too worried. If we lose as per Scotland then its back to square one. Hopefully we can nick a win as per the Ireland game. Shame its not on terrestial TV.
Sleightholme needs to play out of his skin - very surprised he got in front of Roebuck. Roebuck is more versatile and played well last week. Apart from that a pretty good side. Front row is a worry- we are underpowered and not very mobile but hopefully the experience will see us through.
My only concern is ABs coming into this test cold.
Good selection, but will it be good enough? No.
Front three will be hammered.
Yeah, front row is the big weakness and the All Blacks won expose them mercilessly
Agreed. If we can control our own ball, it will be a great game. If not...
Prefer SLADE just to bring water on …..2nd Row Back Row awesome zero complaints.
Just hope the referees doesn’t fk game JUST LET GAME FLOW stay the fk out of it
🫵🤨
Who has the whistle, and is officiating the booth for this contest?
Austin Healy, probably.
England either sneak a win or get hammered. No middle ground here
Could be a draw then 😅
All Blacks supporter here. I reckon England will (unfortunately for me) beat the AB’s in at least this first test. All the best!
Funny enough, as an English man, I think differently to majority of my country men and see an England win here. Will be great game. Let's hope both our team avoid cards.
All Black's win 45-10 world domination start on Saturday England will be the first victim 😂suffered by the Blitz screen across rugby 🏉 field
The real worry is the props Dan Cole and Joe Marler can't go on forever, I hope Fin Baxter does well on his debut but talk about a cauldron of fire. I don't see any real quality tightheads anywhere.
There are a few props (LH and TH) coming through via the A side and U20s, just a case of when they are deemed to be ready to make the step-up. In the meantime, I think Borthwick is right to stick with Cole and Marler at the moment and maybe start transitioning the likes of Sela, Haffar, Opoku-Fordjour and Fasogbon (and of course Baxter) in the autumn internationals.
@@davidrowe8747 I agree we still need Cole and Marler, but my worry is if the youngsters are going to be up to senior rugby anytime soon. perhaps we'll get an indication when the u20s play RSA next week.
Disappointed Owen Farrell was unable to play due to playing in France. Marcus is a class act. Goal kicking not great though.
Maybe Slade might take over some of the kick duties? He's a great goal kicker
Mate, you are such a good bloke
rekkon you'll beat NZ, BON CHANCE
Agreed. Its does look like the best side we can put out. But to me all it highlights is how weak we are. Not a SINGLE player would get near a NZ 2nd XV. Nowhere near. That front row for example almost beggars belief. What on earth has been happening at the RFU for the last 10 years if this is the best we can offer. NZ by 30.
There is no " Team " that cannot beat an opposition
team ..
On a day on an occasion on full time ...!
On a referee
Not true at all. I think Itoje and Martin would both have good cases to start as would Underhill. Mitchell also has a good case. If Ford was fit I would start him over Dmac. Feyi Waboso could as well. I’m a neutral as well. The only real weakness is the front row.
Perhaps this English frontrow will niggle and nag and bring opposition front row down to their level.
England thrashed NZ in the Japan World Cup which isn't that long ago so there's not a massive amount of difference but I do agree about our front 3 being weak, especially in depth... I'm fairly happy with the hookers, it's the props we need to sort out.
At least we won’t have to listen to Farrell whingeing about, well, everything. Have to laugh at Smith’s little girly fist, noting that he doesn’t do it when he is caught out of position, misses a tackle, avoids a ruck, or trips over his own feet. How he stays in the team is beyond me. Should be some interesting matches.
What team do you support?
Marler and George will get abused.
As will Captain Barrett and his locking partner by Maro and George😂
I think NZ will be to fast and strong and dominate the scrum , England got to many old players in the front row , i think Marcus Smith will have a tough time he is small and i think he will be hammered by the fast and strong forwards of NZ