Kyle Sinckler has recovered from a chest problem to return to England’s first-row to face Japan on Sunday; Billy Vunipola was again available after completing his suspension, but Steve Borthwick preferred Lewis Ludlam in eighth; Joe Marler also comes in as the starting 15th
Last updated: 09/15/23 at 5:00 PM
Billy Vunipola (left) and Kyle Sinckler return to the England squad to face Japan
Kyle Sinckler, fit again, has been named in England’s starting line-up to face Japan in the Rugby World Cup on Sunday, but Billy Vunipola will start on the bench upon his return from suspension.
Sinckler has recovered from a chest problem to regain his place in Steve Borthwick’s side, while Joe Marler also comes into the front row.
Lewis Ludlam is preferred over Vunipola in the eighth position with Ben Earl moving from the back of the pack to the wing in place of Tom Curry, who is serving his first two-match ban after being sent off in England’s tournament-opening win over Argentina in the final. weekend.
Vunipola is available again after missing the opening match through suspension, after receiving a red card for a high tackle during a friendly against Ireland in August.
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English attacking coach Richard Wigglesworth confirmed that there are more strengths within the team’s “arsenal” than George Ford’s ability to shoot set pieces before facing Japan on Sunday.
England captain Owen Farrell is serving the final match of the four-match ban he received for a high tackle during a friendly match against Wales earlier in August.
Alex Mitchell and Jonny May, who were surprise starters against Argentina after joining the team late, retain their places at midfield and winger respectively.
The only other change to the squad comes to the bench, with Ben Youngs taking over from Danny Kerr as a substitute half.
England: 15 Freddie Steward, 14 Johnny May, 13 Joe Marchant, 12 Manu Tuilagi, 11 Elliot Daly, 10 George Ford, 9 Alex Mitchell; 1 Joe Marler, 2 Jimmy George, 3 Kyle Sinckler, 4 Maro Itoje, 5 Ollie Chisum, 6 Courtney Laws (c), 7 Ben Earl, 8 Lewis Ludlam.
Replacements: 16 Theo Dunne, 17 Ellis Genge, 18 Will Stewart, 19 George Martin, 20 Billy Vunipola, 21 Ben Young, 22 Marcus Smith, 23 Ollie Lawrence.
Watch England’s Rugby World Cup match against Japan on Sky Sports digital platforms from 7.30pm, with the match kicking off at 8pm on Sunday.
