Following impressive victories over Australia and Fiji, which extended their unbeaten streak to nine matches and boosted them to fourth in World Rugby’s rankings, England is brimming with confidence as they prepare for their next clash. The next opponent, the All Blacks, represents a significant test for the team.

In preparation for what is expected to be a pivotal and defining match of their campaign, head coach Borthwick has implemented seven changes to the lineup that recently triumphed over Fiji.

Unfortunately, both wing Freeman and lock Chessum will be absent due to injuries sustained against the Pacific Islanders. Freeman is sidelined with a hamstring injury, while Chessum is dealing with a foot issue. Their absence is especially impactful given their status as key starters and British & Irish Lions representatives, adding an extra layer of challenge against a strong New Zealand side.

Both wing Freeman and lock Chessum are out due to hamstring and foot injuries suffered against the Pacific Islanders. As first-choice starters if fit and British & Irish Lions, their absence this weekend is a big blow given the strength of opposition.

Freeman is replaced on the right wing by the returning Tom Roebuck who missed Fiji with an ankle knock. In Chessum’s absence, the second-row pairing is captain Maro Itoje and Northampton’s Alex Coles.

Freddie Steward returns to the full-back position.

Steve Borthwick has named his team to face New Zealand in this weekend’s huge Test

Steward also missed Fiji, but is back at No 15 in place of Marcus Smith. Borthwick has resisted the temptation to throw Elliot Daly back into action after he recovered from a broken arm.

‘I’m pleased with the progress we are making,’ said Borthwick. 

‘Without doubt, New Zealand are one of the best teams in the world and facing them is always a special challenge.

‘Playing in front of a packed-out Allianz Stadium means a huge amount to the players. The support we’ve had throughout this series has been outstanding and we want it loud again on Saturday.’

Itoje, No 10 George Ford, hooker Jamie George, Steward, Roebuck, prop Fin Baxter and flanker Sam Underhill are the seven changes made by Borthwick from Fiji.

Fraser Dingwall and Ollie Lawrence continue as the centre pairing.

The experienced Ford is back at playmaker instead of Fin Smith who drops out of the 23-man matchday squad altogether. 

England will be without Tommy Freeman for the game due to a hamstring injury

England’s bench is packed with power and is made up of six forwards and two backs once again.

Luke Cowan-Dickie, Ellis Genge, Will Stuart, Tom Curry and Henry Pollock were all Lions in Australia in the summer and are primed to cause havoc as replacements. So too is the brutish Chandler Cunningham-South.

Ben Spencer and Marcus Smith are the two back-line presences in reserve.