After a tough loss to Argentina both a convincing performance and a victory feel necessary for England
Before the former United States President was suspended from Twitter, it was said that one could trawl through the archives to find a Donald Trump post pertaining to any topic. Seven years into his tenure as head coach, we are in a similar situation with Eddie Jones soundbites.
One of his recurring crowd-pleasers has referenced public opinion: “If you listen to the fan in the crowd, you become the fan in the crowd”. On the Telegraph Rugby Podcast recently, Jones reiterated the importance of staying “resolute” amid opinions of media figures and supporters. This selection to face Japan definitely reflects a certain stubbornness, although there are hints of tailoring the line-up to Japan’s traits.
The much-debated axis of Marcus Smith and Owen Farrell remains. This time, though, Jones reprises the midfield trio from the last two Tests in Australia and brings in Guy Porter. This provides two playmakers with a punchy carrier, while ensuring there is more lateral mobility to counter the width Japan are bound to impart. Manu Tuilagi joins Henry Slade among the replacements. The starting backline seems more balanced, with Jonny May reintegrated. And there is scope for a total revamp later on.
In another selection that is bound to raise eyebrows, Maro Itoje is retained at blindside flanker. David Ribbans swaps with Northampton Saints team-mate Alex Coles for a debut, so England still have a three-lock lineout. However, Sam Simmonds replaces Billy Vunipola at the base of the scrum. As part of an otherwise heavy back five of the pack, Simmonds has something close to the Exeter Chiefs template in which he has thrived. His pace should offer a carrying counterpoint to the heft of Ellis Genge, Kyle Sinckler and Jonny Hill and Ribbans. Jones did say that he was reluctant to team up Tom Curry and Jack Willis. The latter is dropped entirely.