Marchant Recalled to England Squad Amidst Fly-Half Injury Concerns

Joe Marchant has been recalled to the England training squad for the upcoming Nations Championship matches, receiving his first call-up since the 2023 World Cup. His inclusion comes as head coach Steve Borthwick grapples with injury disruptions, particularly at fly-half, where Fin Smith is a doubt for the opening match against Australia.

Borthwick acknowledged the limited preparation time his squad has had for the Test against a comparatively battle-hardened Australia. The team is currently in a three-day training camp in Bagshot. The Nations Championship games against Australia and Japan are seen as crucial for Steve Borthwick to establish a core group of players ahead of the World Cup, with several players also facing fitness doubts.