Steve Borthwick's approach to England's autumn campaign is set to unfold as he names his training squad shortly after the Harlequins match on Sunday. The urgency is palpable, with only a few days to prepare before players return to their clubs for domestic fixtures.

Traditionally, Borthwick avoids surprises in his squad selections, yet the current landscape of the Premiership and the recent Champions Cup matches presents a complex decision. He must decide whether to harness the attacking style prevalent in the league or prioritize a more conservative approach suited for international play, especially with only 12 matches before the World Cup opener.

Key considerations include:

• Inclusion of players like George Hendy, Will Joseph, and Fitz Harding may indicate a willingness to embrace the exciting chaos of the Prem.
• A recall for Courtney Lawes would suggest a more cautious strategy.

Borthwick's challenge lies in defining England's identity. Should he select the best players available or those who align with his vision? Assistant coach Richard Wigglesworth emphasized that identity emerges from performance rather than merely selecting players.

As the Nations Championship approaches, high-scoring games are anticipated, but past World Cups show that knockout matches often feature lower scores. Borthwick must balance attacking flair with the need for strong set-pieces and defense, as highlighted by Brendan Venter's insights from his World Cup experience.

Despite his recent contract extension, the pressure mounts; a loss against Australia in the opener could intensify scrutiny. Borthwick must extract the essence of the Prem while preparing for the challenges ahead, as noted by George Skivington: the task is to choose what translates effectively to international competition.