Confirmed: When England name team to face Springboks

11/12/2024 03:41 AM

England head coach Steve Borthwick won't be in any rush to name his side for Saturday's colossal showdown against world champions South Africa.

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After early team announcements ahead of recent defeats to New Zealand and Australia, Borthwick is playing his cards closer to his chest this time.

RUCK has learned that the line-up won't drop until at least Thursday morning. Why the delay? Well, it seems injury chaos has left Borthwick needing more time to figure out his options.

Injury Blows Hit Hard

The big issue? Both Tom Curry, 26, and wing Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, 21, are in concussion protocol after picking up head knocks in that gut-wrenching last-gasp loss to Australia. To cover their absence, Bath's Ted Hill and Sale Sharks flyer Tom Roebuck have been brought into the training camp.

Likely England team to play Springboks

Ellis Genge, Jamie George, Will Stuart, Maro Itoje, George Martin, Chandler Cunningham-South, Sam Underhill, Ben Earl, Ben Spencer, Marcus Smith, Tommy Freeman, Ollie Lawrence, Alex Lozowski, Ollie Sleightholme, Freddie Steward.

Hill to the Rescue?

Ted Hill is no stranger to the England setup. The Bath flanker has two caps under his belt, having previously played under Eddie Jones, and was even involved in training before England's clash with the All Blacks last month.

Roebuck’s Return

Tom Roebuck, who made his England debut against Japan back in June, is also back in the mix. Although he was cut from the squad before facing Australia, the explosive winger has a chance to impress again. Yet, Northampton speedster Ollie Sleightholme, who bagged two tries as a replacement last Saturday, is still the frontrunner to start on the wing.

Rassie’s Game of Mystery

Meanwhile, Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus is gearing up for mind games of his own. Last week, he kept everyone guessing and only named his side late on Friday. Even with a so-called 'second' team, the Boks did the job against Scotland. Expect that to change: this week, it's all about fielding the strongest XV. South Africa's announcement is locked in for Thursday, 14 November, at 13:00 (SA time).

Wealthiest Rugby couples (Net Worth):

From high-profile partnerships to humble beginnings, these power pairs have amassed impressive fortunes while leaving a lasting legacy. With stories of childhood love, philanthropic missions, and royal connections, each couple brings their own unique flair to the game.

Here's a look at the top rugby couples whose bonds—and bank accounts—have made them iconic.

Johnny & Laura Sexton – The Dublin Dream Team (£6m)

From teenage sweethearts to one of rugby's wealthiest pairs, Johnny and Laura Sexton have captured fans' hearts as much as Johnny's kicks have clinched games. Their love story began at Rathgar Tennis Club, blossoming all the way to marriage in 2013.

With three kids cheering on dad from the sidelines, the Sextons are as iconic off the field as Johnny is on it. The couple's journey—from Saint Mary's College to University College Dublin—stands as a testament to commitment and love. 

Siya & Rachel Kolisi – The Power Couple with a Purpose (£10m)

Siya and Rachel Kolisi's £10 million empire wasn't just built on rugby; it's infused with purpose. The Kolisis are widely admired for their philanthropic work, especially through the Kolisi Foundation, which uplifts underprivileged communities.

Although the couple recently parted ways, Rachel remains a key influence in Siya's life. Now back with the Sharks after a stint in France, Siya continues to value her steadfast support. Despite the split, their legacy as South Africa's "golden couple" lives on. 

Mike & Zara Tindall – Royal Connections and Reality TV (£20m)

"Fridge" by nickname, royalty by association, Mike Tindall's wealth and fame go beyond rugby. Married to Zara Phillips, Queen Elizabeth II's granddaughter, Tindall has firmly planted himself in British pop culture. From breaking his nose eight times to breaking records in rugby, Mike's career has been nothing short of resilient.

Since retirement, he's taken his profile to new heights with appearances on shows like I'm a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here and Bear Grylls: Mission Survive. His estimated £20 million fortune proves rugby and royalty make quite the combo. 

Jonny & Shelley Wilkinson – A Hero's Quiet Empire (£22m)

Jonny Wilkinson isn't just a legend on the field; he's a legend in love too. After leading England to the 2003 Rugby World Cup victory, Wilkinson has kept a low profile with his wife, Shelley Jenkins.

They wed in 2013 on the scenic French Riviera, and now with a young son, they're embracing family life in the quiet lane. Worth £22 million, Jonny's legacy as one of rugby's finest is matched by his financial success and family's privacy. 

Sonny Bill & Alana Williams – The Ring, the Romance, and the Riches (£20m)

Sonny Bill Williams, the Kiwi powerhouse, is famed not just for rugby but for his ventures into the boxing ring. Known for his versatility on the field and knockout power off it, he's carved a unique sports career.

His whirlwind romance with Alana Raffie, culminating in a four-week engagement, sparked as much intrigue as his sporting accomplishments. Now worth £20 million, the couple's success story includes rugby, league, boxing, and plenty of endorsements. 

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