Tommy Freeman moves to centre in England's clash against Australia

Tommy Freeman will transition to outside centre for England’s first match of the Autumn Nations Series against Australia on Saturday.

Head coach Steve Borthwick has picked at No 13. Freeman, traditionally a winger with 21 caps and three appearances for the British & Irish Lions, has also previously operated in midfield.

The Northampton Saints star will line up alongside Fraser Dingwall at inside centre, with George Ford at fly-half and Alex Mitchell at scrum-half.

The move allows Tom Roebuck to retain a wing spot alongside Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, with Freddie Steward at full-back.

“Tommy’s confidence is through the roof and his form is amazing,” said Mitchell about his teammate’s shift.

Fin Baxter and Joe Heyes will be part of the front row alongside Jamie George while captain Maro Itoje and Ollie Chessum will be forming the second row.

Bath's Guy Pepper will start at blindside along with Sam Underhill at the openside and Ben Earl donning the number eight jersey. Luke Cowan-Dickie is set to win his 50th cap when he comes of the bench.

“Luke is a fierce competitor who gives absolutely everything every time he pulls on an England shirt,”
said Steve Borthwick.

“Reaching 50 caps is a reflection of his consistency, resilience and commitment to the team over many years. We couldn’t be prouder of his achievement.”

England XV: 15 Freddie Steward, 14 Tom Roebuck, 13 Tommy Freeman, 12 Fraser Dingwall, 11 Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, 10 George Ford, 9 Alex Mitchell, 8 Ben Earl, 7 Sam Underhill, 6 Guy Pepper, 5 Ollie Chessum, 4 Maro Itoje (c), 3 Joe Heyes, 2 Jamie George, 1 Fin Baxter

Reserves: 16 Luke Cowan-Dickie, 17 Ellis Genge, 18 Will Stuart, 19 Alex Coles, 20 Tom Curry, 21 Henry Pollock, 22 Ben Spencer, 23 Fin Smith