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Curry, Tom

England Rugby Squad Announced for Autumn Tests

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

Noah Caluori, the 19-year-old winger, has been promoted to England's full squad for their autumn Tests, while Tom Curry returns to the team after a summer of wrist surgery. Curry had not played for Sale this season after undergoing surgery, but is back in time to face Australia at Twickenham on Saturday. However, Leicester Tigers' Emeka Ilione has been injured and replaced by Harlequins' Jack Kenningham in the 36-man squad.

Steve Borthwick, the England head coach, had previously considered Caluori as part of a development plan, but has now included him with no caveats. Caluori played for Champ side Ampthill against Cornish Pirates on October 11 and has featured in only four Prem matches this season. He is still eligible for the under-20s and is expected to make his debut this autumn, although it is unlikely that he will be thrust straight in against Australia on Saturday.

Key Takeaways:

  • Noah Caluori, 19, has been promoted to England's full squad for their autumn Tests, while Tom Curry returns from wrist surgery.
  • Curry had not played for Sale this season after undergoing surgery, but is back in time to face Australia at Twickenham on Saturday.
  • Leicester Tigers' Emeka Ilione has been injured and replaced by Harlequins' Jack Kenningham in the 36-man squad.
  • Steve Borthwick, the England head coach, had previously considered Caluori as part of a development plan, but has now included him with no caveats.
  • Caluori played for Champ side Ampthill against Cornish Pirates on October 11 and has featured in only four Prem matches this season.
  • He is still eligible for the under-20s and is expected to make his debut this autumn.
  • Freddie Steward is the only recognised full back in the squad, with Marcus Smith an option behind him.
  • Jack van Poortvliet is not over his shoulder issue, so Raffi Quirke stays involved as a scrum half alongside Alex Mitchell and Ben Spencer.
  • England have had little preparatory time due to a deal with the Prem clubs to lose their usual training week in October.
  • The team faces Fiji, New Zealand, and Argentina after Australia, with Steve Borthwick focusing on making the most of their limited time together.

Statistics:

  • 36-man squad announced for England's autumn Tests.
  • 19-year-old Noah Caluori promoted to the squad.
  • Tom Curry returns from wrist surgery after four months.
  • Leicester Tigers' Emeka Ilione injured, replaced by Harlequins' Jack Kenningham.
  • England have had little preparatory time due to a deal with the Prem clubs.
  • 12 forwards and 24 backs in the squad.
  • 4 players under the age of 20: Noah Caluori (19), Chandler Cunningham-South (22), Henry Pollock (20), and Immanuel Feyi-Waboso (22).

Sources:

  • "Noah Caluori, 19, promoted to England's full squad for autumn Tests | Sports." The Telegraph, Telegraph Media Group Limited, 7 Nov. 2023.
  • England Rugby Squad for Autumn Tests | England Rugby.

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