Tom Curry has emerged as a major doubt for England’s autumn opener against Australia on Sunday, presenting a significant challenge for coach Steve Borthwick ahead of a crucial November campaign. The injury occurred during Wednesday’s intensive training session, disrupting Borthwick’s plans for the back-row configuration.

Borthwick is set to finalize his team selection before announcing it on Friday afternoon, but currently, Ben Curry, Tom's twin brother, is in pole position to start at openside flanker. Losing Tom would be detrimental, especially as Borthwick aims to win the physical battle against the Wallabies.

Key details include:

• The injury to Tom Curry complicates England’s strategy, as he has been an impactful player in previous matches.
• Both Kepu Tuipulotu and Archie McParland have also sustained injuries that rule them out of contention for this weekend's match.
• Tom, who was expected to start, had previously showcased his effectiveness against Australia during the first Test victory for the British & Irish Lions last summer.

In contrast, Ben has not started for England since the 2025 summer tour of Argentina and the USA, where he struggled with long-term hamstring injuries. Nonetheless, he remains highly regarded by Borthwick and will be crucial in countering the breakdown threats posed by the Wallabies. Other potential replacements for Tom Curry include Henry Pollock and Greg Fisilau, should his participation be ruled out.