Rugby World Cup: Sam Burgess omitted from latest England squad
SAM Burgess’s hopes of being named in England’s Rugby World Cup squad have received a blow after he was left out of the latest squad.
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SAM Burgess’s hopes of being named in England’s Rugby World Cup squad have received a blow after he was left out of the 23-man panel for Sunday’s (AEST) clash with France in Paris.
Burgess made an encouraging international debut against the French at Twickenham last week despite being sin-binned for tackling an opponent while in an off-side position, helping Stuart Lancaster’s side to a 19-14 victory.
But Lancaster has made 14 changes to the side in what will be the last run out before he announces his final 31-man squad on August 31.
Former South Sydney superstar Burgess played at centre alongside Henry Slade, who also impressed against the French, and must hope he’s done enough to impress Lancaster who reverted back to his tried and trusted centre partnership of Luther Burrell and Jonathan Joseph, leaving open the question of who will provide midfield cover.
Former Melbourne Rebels five-eighth Danny Cipriani will look to stake his claims after being named on the bench for the Stade de France fixture, having had little chance to shine when making substitute appearances last week.
“Having reviewed last Saturday there were a lot of things we were pleased with considering it was the first game,” Lancaster said.
“There is now an opportunity for those not involved or who didn’t get much opportunity from the bench to put a marker down and build on that performance.”
“It is a big couple of weeks ahead for all the 39-man squad with the game this weekend and some competitive training sessions to come this week and next as we look to narrow down the squad ahead of the World Cup.”
England (15-1): Mike Brown, Jack Nowell, Jonathan Joseph, Luther Burrell, Jonny May, George Ford, Ben Youngs; Joe Marler, Tom Youngs, Dan Cole, Courtney Lawes, Joe Launchbury, James Haskell, Chris Robshaw, Billy Vunipola. Reserves: Jamie George, Mako Vunipola, David Wilson, Dave Attwood, Nick Easter, Danny Care, Danny Cipriani, Billy Twelvetrees
Originally published as Rugby World Cup: Sam Burgess omitted from latest England squad
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