Henry Slade Returns as England Faces New Zealand

Henry Slade will return to England’s starting midfield against New Zealand on Saturday, despite having only played 54 minutes of club rugby this season. After undergoing shoulder surgery over the summer, Henry Slade made his comeback last weekend during Exeter’s defeat to Harlequins. In another change, Ben Spencer steps in for the injured Alex Mitchell at scrum-half with Bristol’s Harry Randall on the bench. Tom Curry joins the back row alongside Chandler Cunningham-South and Ben Earl while Curry’s brother, Ben is among six forwards on the bench.

George Ford, back from a quad injury also features as a substitute but Sam Underhill, who played in both of England’s July losses to New Zealand, does not make the matchday squad. Ellis Genge returns at loose-head prop after missing the summer tour due to a calf injury and will serve as one of four vice-captains alongside skipper Jamie George. The on-pitch leadership group also includes second-row and new Saracens captain Maro Itoje, Ford and Earl.

Head coach Steve Borthwick expressed excitement about facing one of the best teams in world rugby, emphasizing the need for discipline and intensity throughout the match. England’s last encounter with New Zealand at Twickenham ended in a 25-25 draw in 2022. While England famously defeated the All Blacks at the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan, their last win on home soil against New Zealand dates back to 2012.

Borthwick highlighted Slade’s significance to the team, noting his experience and excellent condition after recovering from surgery. Meanwhile, Ollie Chessum will miss all four autumn Tests including matches against Australia, South Africa and Japan after undergoing knee surgery. Sam Underhill continues to work on his form following an ankle operation early this season.