England have named a refreshed starting XV for the clash with Fiji at Twickenham, as head coach Steve Borthwick aims to emphasise pace, physicality and attacking intent. With a big weekend still ahead against New Zealand, this match offers opportunities for several players to stake their claim.
Match Details
Fixture: England vs Fiji
Date: Saturday, 8 November 2025
Venue: Twickenham Stadium, London
Kick-off (SAST): 17:40
Starting XV
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Ellis Genge (Co-captain)
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Luke Cowan-Dickie
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Joe Heyes
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Alex Coles
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Ollie Chessum
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Guy Pepper
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Ben Earl
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Chandler Cunningham-South
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Alex Mitchell
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Fin Smith
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Immanuel Feyi-Waboso
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Fraser Dingwall
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Ollie Lawrence
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Tommy Freeman
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Marcus Smith
Replacements (selected)
Jamie George; Fin Baxter; Asher Opoku-Fordjour; Maro Itoje (Co-captain); Tom Curry; Henry Pollock; Ben Spencer; Henry Arundell
Key Talking Points
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Fresh faces in key roles: Fin Smith gets the number 10 start, Marcus Smith moved to full-back — both signal England’s desire to blend youthful energy with attacking flair.
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Power and balance up front: With Genge leading the pack and Coles starting in the second-row, England look to bring physical intensity and control in the set-piece and breakdown.
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Back-line pace & width: The wings and outside options (Feyi-Waboso and Freeman) suggest England will look to exploit space and get dynamic ball into the hands of rapid finishers.
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Fiji’s threat and motivation: Fiji will arrive with a sense of purpose and the capability to upset; England cannot underestimate their carriers and flair players.
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Opportunity & pressure: With the tougher fixture against New Zealand still to come, England have both an opportunity to build momentum and a need to avoid complacency.
Injuries & Selection Notes:
Several England regulars are rested or rotated, creating chances for younger players. Fiji have their full quota of experienced players, and will aim to test England’s discipline and physical edge.
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