Ford Starts at Fly-Half as England Face All Blacks in Rebuilt lineup
LONDON – England will field George Ford at fly-half for SaturdayS match against New Zealand, a selection reflecting a focus on experience adn tactical control, according to head coach Steve Borthwick. The decision means Northampton’s Fin Smith is omitted from the matchday squad entirely.
The choice of Ford is considered unsurprising given the forecast for damp weather and the need to test the security of New Zealand’s back three under the high ball.Borthwick emphasized Ford’s leadership qualities, stating, “George is a very calm leader but also has the ability to bring the team together and [put] the team on to the front foot. That’s what I’ll be looking for him to do on Saturday.”
The selection represents a meaningful shift in england’s conventional order, with Borthwick acknowledging the quality of all three fly-half options. He added, “I could have picked any of the three fly-halves and be sat here talking about how they’re the right player becuase I think they’re all terrific.”
The match is anticipated to be closely contested, mirroring last year’s series where England lost three games to the All Blacks by a combined total of just 10 points. England also factored in the need for a versatile bench, with elliot Daly still recovering full match fitness, necessitating a reserve capable of covering the back three. Scott Robertson’s New Zealand side are known for their clinical finishing, suggesting a perhaps tight finish in the final 20 minutes.
