LONDON – Explosive centre Jonathan Joseph has been replaced in the centres by league convert Sam Burgess for England’s match-up against Wales at Twickenham on Saturday.
It’s reportedly bad news for Joseph as he is set to miss England’s remaining three pool games as he recovers from a pectoral injury suffered in their win over Fiji in the World Cup opener.
Joseph’s injury is a blow to the hosts’ chance of topping their pool with him and Brad Barritt forming a dynamic partnership in England’s midfield. With his attacking prowess missing, it leaves England’s backline creative stocks a little low with the defensive-minded Burgess coming in to partner Brad Barritt, who is also particularly strong in his defensive capabilities.
Burgess’ inclusion is one of three changes made to the starting team who beat Fiji in the World Cup opener with Owen Farrell starting at pivot in place of George Ford who drops to the bench. Back rower Billy Vunipola also comes in for Ben Morgan who is struggling with a niggly knee injury.
As for the bench, James Haskell comes in as cover for the back row while Alex Goode comes in as cover for the back three.
England team to play Wales
1. Marler
2. T Youngs
3. Cole
4. Parling
5. Lawes
6. Wood
7. Robshaw
8. B Vunipola
9. B Youngs
10. Farrell
11. May
12. Burgess
13. Barritt
14. Watson
15. Brown
Replacements
16. Webber 17. M Vunipola 18. Brookes 19. Launchbury 20. Haskell 21. Wigglesworth 22. Ford 23. Goode.