Ellis Genge sidelined: Who are the options to start for England against the All Blacks.
Genge has been a crucial participant in the Red Rose setup for some time and has firmly established himself as Steve Borthwick’s first-choice loosehead, making his departure a significant loss ahead of such a large tour.
While Genge has been exceptional for England in the scrum and carry, the team has also lost its vice-captain, which adds to Borthwick’s current stress.
With Genge’s absence in mind, we look at who England’s head coach might consider as a substitute during the mid-year window.
Front runner
Joe Marler, a Red Rose white veteran with over 90 caps for his country, is the obvious choice. The prop has been in great form during the Premiership season,
There’s also the loosehead’s mental health to consider, with the 33-year-old confessing that he finds it difficult to stay away from his family for extended periods. However, if Big Joe is available, he will need to stand up to the pressure, especially since Scott Robertson’s All Blacks feature the exceptional tighthead. Tyrel Lomax