Henry Pollock will serve as a bench player for England in their upcoming match against South Africa. Coach Steve Borthwick has chosen to rely on Ollie Chessum, Tom Curry, and Ben Earl in the back row, indicating a strategic preference for experience and strength.

Pollock, who earned the title of player of the match in the Gallagher Premiership final while helping Northampton Saints secure the championship, finds himself in an impact replacement role in Johannesburg.

Key selections include:

• Ollie Chessum promoted to vice-captain, maintaining a robust No 6 position.
• Alex Coles and George Martin partnering in the second row due to the absence of Maro Itoje.
• Jack van Poortvliet starting at scrum-half alongside Fin Smith.
• George Furbank making his first England appearance since November 2024 at full-back.
• Immanuel Feyi-Waboso starting on the wing, with Tommy Freeman at outside centre alongside Seb Atkinson, reflecting their successful partnership from the Six Nations.

England faces a daunting challenge against the world champion Springboks at Ellis Park, coming off a streak of four consecutive defeats and their poorest performance in the Six Nations.

“Playing South Africa at Ellis Park is one of the great Tests in world rugby and an opportunity we’re excited to embrace,” Borthwick stated, expressing confidence in the squad's preparation and eagerness to kick off their Nations Championship campaign.

England's itinerary includes matches against Fiji in Liverpool and Argentina in Santiago del Estero, with Jamie George stepping in as captain for the rested Itoje. Borthwick has opted for a heavy bench, including six forwards, with Mitchell and Marcus Smith providing backline support.

The starting XV for the match on Saturday, July 4, at 4:40 pm BST includes:

1. Ellis Genge
2. Jamie George (capt.)
3. Joe Heyes
4. Alex Coles
5. George Martin
6. Ollie Chessum
7. Tom Curry
8. Ben Earl
9. Jack van Poortvliet
10. Fin Smith
11. Cadan Murley
12. Seb Atkinson
13. Tommy Freeman
14. Immanuel Feyi-Waboso
15. George Furbank.