Fin Baxter to Start for England Against New Zealand at Eden Park

Fin Baxter, Harlequins prop will make his first start for England against New Zealand at Eden Park on Saturday, replacing the injured Joe Marler in the only change to England’s starting XV from their 16-15 loss in the first Test. Fin Baxter, 22, debuted as a first-half replacement for Marler in Dunedin with Marler ruled out of the final Test in Auckland due to a foot injury.

Meanwhile, Sale’s Bevan Rodd joins the bench, the sole change as England seeks to end New Zealand’s Eden Park dominance since 1994.  Moreover, Steve Borthwick is eager to see New Zealand’s approach under pressure to maintain their unbeaten Eden Park record. Borthwick encourages his players to embrace the high expectations and play boldly.

Additionally, Dan Cole will move up to second on England’s caps list with his 115th appearance, tied with Jason Leonard. Scrum-half Ben Youngs holds the record with 127 caps. Borthwick praised Cole as a role model and one of England’s greatest players, highlighting his significant influence and achievements.

Furthermore, New Zealand’s starting XV sees Finlay Christie in for the injured TJ Perenara with Cortez Ratima on the bench. All Blacks coach Scott Robertson highlighted Eden Park’s atmosphere and their goal to win the series against England.

Line-ups:

New Zealand: Perofeta; Reece, Ioane, J Barrett, Tele’a; McKenzie, Christie; De Groot, Taylor, Lomax, S Barrett (capt), Tuipulotu, Finau, Papali’i, Savea. Replacements: Aumua, Tu’ungafasi, Newell, Vaa’i, Jacobson, Ratima, Lienert-Brown, B Barrett.

England: Furbank; Feyi-Waboso, Slade, Lawrence, Freeman; M Smith, Mitchell; Baxter, George (capt), Stuart, Itoje, Martin, Cunningham-South, Underhill, Earl. Replacements: Rodd, Mears, Marler, Launchbury, Ludlam, Robson, Farrell, Malins.

England seeks to overcome a historic challenge at Eden Park with fresh faces in the squad and a blend of experienced players like Dan Cole aiming to inspire a memorable performance.