Get ready for a thrilling journey as we dive into the world of English rugby and explore the depth chart for England's backline ahead of 2026!
A Headache for Borthwick: The Full-Back Dilemma
As we step into the new year, Planet Rugby presents an in-depth analysis of England's full-back options. Steve Borthwick, the national team's coach, faces a challenging decision with two top contenders in excellent form.
George Furbank, the Saints' man, is currently the front-runner. After a tough year riddled with injuries, he's back and ready to showcase his playmaking abilities in the backfield, which align perfectly with England's current strategy. However, Freddie Steward, the Leicester player, is hot on his heels. His recent improvements in both attack and defense make him a formidable opponent, and his skills in the air are an added bonus.
But here's where it gets interesting: Northampton's George Hendy is arguably the PREM's form player right now. His pace, power, and versatility make him a standout candidate. He can seamlessly transition between wing, full-back, and even centre, adding an extra layer of excitement to England's attack.
Elliot Daly, having returned to full fitness during the autumn, is also in the mix. His performance on the Lions tour prior to his injury solidifies his place as a top-notch 15.
And this is the part most people miss: Marcus Smith and Joe Carpenter, who made his debut in the summer, are also options for full-back in 2026.
The Wingers: A Blessing for England
England is truly blessed with an abundance of talented wingers. Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, Tommy Freeman, and Tom Roebuck are the front-runners for the starting shirt.
Feyi-Waboso, the Exeter player, has made a strong impact this season after months on the sidelines. His pace, power, and willingness to come off his wing add a unique dynamic to the attack, seamlessly blending with England's kicking strategy.
Freeman and Roebuck, who will be competing for the number 14 shirt in 2026, have both excelled at the Test level in 2025. Freeman's versatility, having played at 13, could simplify Borthwick's decisions regarding the wingers.
Henry Arundell, known for his try-scoring abilities, is another contender for the wing position. His rare combination of pace and try-scoring instincts makes him a player to watch in 2026.
Underneath these top contenders, players like George Hendy, Adam Radwan, Cadan Murley, Noah Caluori, and Ollie Hassell-Collins will be pushing for a spot in the new year.
Midfield Magic: A Position of Strength
The midfield, once a problem area, has transformed into a position of strength for England. All three leading options—Tommy Freeman, Ollie Lawrence, and Henry Slade—started at least one Test during the Autumn Nations Series.
Freeman's ball-carrying threat and his form at 13 for Northampton make him a strong contender. Lawrence brings power and game understanding, while Slade's running game down the outside channels has improved significantly.
Benhard Janse van Rensburg, newly qualified and eligible after a push from the RFU, is an option here as well. His blend of power and playmaking skills fits perfectly with England's new attack system.
Inside Centre: A Loaded Position
The inside centre position, like its outside counterpart, is becoming a loaded area for England. Fraser Dingwall, Max Ojomoh, and Seb Atkinson impressed throughout 2025, and Janse van Rensburg's eligibility adds even more depth.
Dingwall's playmaking skills and ability to step in at 10 provide England with an extra dimension. Janse van Rensburg, Ojomoh, and Atkinson offer similar skillsets, and it's expected that all will get a chance to showcase their talents at the Test level this year.
The Big Call: Fly-Half Decision
The fly-half position is where Borthwick faces his biggest decision. George Ford, Fin Smith, and Marcus Smith are all worthy Test starters, and each has made a strong case for the shirt over the past two years.
Ford seems to be leading the pack, especially with England's new kicking game. His ability to play into space and get a tune out of his side makes him a valuable asset.
The battle for the second-choice option is intriguing. Fin Smith's selection against Fiji suggests he's the de facto option outside of Ford, but Marcus Smith's versatility at 15 and 10 makes him a more likely bench option, ready to step in at fly-half if needed.
Both Smiths are elite Test match 10s, but it seems they'll have to wait their turn for now.
Scrum-Half: A Duopoly
The nine shirt debate is a bit simpler. Alex Mitchell and Ben Spencer have formed a strong partnership, with Mitchell providing the explosive attack and Spencer adding calmness and composure. This balance works well regardless of Borthwick's starting order.
Harry Randall, having missed out on the Autumn due to injury, is primed for a recall, and Raffi Quirke is likely to round off the scrum-half depth chart in 2026, depending on his recovery.
So, what do you think? Who should be England's starting fly-half? And how will Borthwick navigate these talented backline options? Let's discuss in the comments!
