Borthwick backs Jamie George to lead England against France XV

England head coach Steve Borthwick has confirmed that Jamie George will resume the England captaincy alongside George Ford for Saturday’s match against a France XV at Twickenham.

The fixture, although uncapped, offers a critical test for new combinations and leadership dynamics ahead of the summer tour to Argentina and the USA.

The decision comes after Maro Itoje, who led the side during the Six Nations, was made unavailable due to British & Irish Lions commitments.

In his absence, Borthwick has turned to a dual leadership model, believing the experience and synergy between George and Ford will offer the stability and clarity required for a youthful squad.

“He (George) is really clear from a tactical point of view. He’s got a brilliant voice,” Borthwick explained.

“I’ve seen how Jamie and George Ford work together — both of them are phenomenal players and they’re phenomenal role models for the rest of the players. I decided that was the right way to go.”

> “Training, they complement each other superbly well. They speak the same language in terms of rugby understanding. That then gives us a figurehead in the forwards, a figurehead in the backs, which I think is really important.”

Jamie George, having led England throughout the Six Nations campaign, brings vocal authority and technical insight, especially in the set piece.

George Ford, who is just one cap away from reaching his 100th international appearance, is expected to steer the backline and provide composure in playmaking.

Borthwick emphasized that the duo represents not just experience but also mentorship for a squad dotted with fresh faces.

Among those are five uncapped players: Joe Carpenter, Seb Atkinson, Guy Pepper, Jack Kenningham, and Oscar Beard — all set for their first taste of senior national duty.

“Seb Atkinson has smashed every record we have on GPS in terms of his running demand, and that’s not just in the backs, that’s the whole team.”

George’s return to the captaincy, even if temporarily for this match, is symbolic of Borthwick’s trust in his leadership both on and off the field. The England coach hinted that such selections are not merely about individual quality, but about how players uplift the group.

“That voice, that energy, that confidence has a really positive effect on other players.”

The match kicks off at 3:15 pm on Saturday at Twickenham and will be streamed live.