Farrell returns to lead England's big guns against Wales
TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: England head coach Steve Borthwick has made 11 changes to his starting XV for Saturday’s second World Cup warm-up match against Wales at Twickenham.
The changes see the return of several big names including flyhalf Owen Farrell who will lead the team.
Billy Vunipola will also start in the No.8 jersey after his recent troubles with a knee injury.
Other big names in the pack include Maro Itoje, Courtney Lawes, Jamie Goerge and Joe Marler.
There is also a surprise on the bench in the form of Jonny Hill, who was not included in Borthwick’s final World Cup squad.
“We are very much looking forward to our return to Twickenham Stadium on Saturday, and the opportunity to play in front of our supporters again,” said Borthwick.
“England versus Wales is always a special fixture, and we are pleased to be playing the visitors again so soon.
“We’re delighted for Ellis [Genge] who will win his 50th cap from the bench. He’s a brilliant professional, both on and off the field, and I’m sure Saturday will be a very proud moment for him and his family.”
On Hill’s involvement, Borthwick added: “Jonny has trained with us throughout the week, and I am pleased to be able to name him in the matchday 23. I have no doubt he will provide a big impact for us off the bench.”.
England: 15 Freddie Steward, 14 Henry Arundell, 13 Joe Marchant, 12 Ollie Lawrence, 11 Elliot Daly, 10 Owen Farrell (captain), 9 Jack van Poortvliet, 8 Billy Vunipola, 7 Ben Earl, 6 Courtney Lawes, 5 George Martin, 4 Maro Itoje, 3 Will Stuart, 2 Jamie George, 1 Joe Marler.
Replacements: 16 Theo Dan, 17 Ellis Genge, 18 Dan Cole, 19 Jonny Hill, 20 Jack Willis, 21 Ben Youngs, 22 George Ford, 23 Max Malins.
Date: Saturday, August 12
Venue: Twickenham Stadium, London
Kick-off: 17.30 (16.30 GMT)
Referee: Nika Amashukeli (Georgia)
Assistant referees: Andrew Brace (Ireland), Andrea Piardi (Italy)
TMO: Brian MacNeice (Ireland)
