England make two changes for Japan Test

England head coach Steve Borthwick has made two adjustments to the starting lineup for Sunday’s final autumn Test against Japan at Twickenham.

George Furbank and Tom Curry have been called up as England aim to break a disappointing five-match losing streak.

Furbank replaces Freddie Steward at full-back, while Curry takes over the No. 6 jersey from Chandler Cunningham-South.

Borthwick is using the opportunity to further explore his back-row combinations as England look to rebuild confidence following a series of disappointing results.

England head into the clash after three consecutive home losses to New Zealand, Australia, and South Africa, continuing a winless streak that dates back to a 52-17 victory over Japan in June.

Despite the setbacks, Borthwick’s men will be looking for redemption against a familiar opponent.

Former England coach Eddie Jones, now leading Japan, is also under pressure after heavy defeats to Fiji, New Zealand, and France. However, Japan managed a morale-boosting 36-20 win over Uruguay last weekend.

Acknowledging Japan’s fast-paced playing style, Borthwick emphasized the importance of discipline and strategy.

“We anticipate a tough challenge from a team that thrives on playing fast and with tempo,” he said.

“Japan are a dangerous team, so it’s important that we execute our game plan and maintain focus throughout the full 80 minutes.”

England XV: 15 George Furbank, 14 Tommy Freeman, 13 Ollie Lawrence, 12 Henry Slade, 11 Ollie Sleightholme, 10 Marcus Smith, 9 Jack van Poortvliet, 8 Ben Earl, 7 Sam Underhill, 6 Tom Curry, 5 George Martin, 4 Maro Itoje, 3 Will Stuart, 2 Jamie George (c), 1 Ellis Genge

Reserves: 16 Luke Cowan-Dickie, 17 Fin Baxter, 18 Asher Opoku-Fordjour, 19 Nick Isiekwe, 20 Chandler Cunningham-South, 21 Harry Randall, 22 Fin Smith, 23 Tom Roebuck