In the upcoming Rugby World Cup clash between England and Japan, some interesting changes in the England lineup have captured the attention of rugby enthusiasts. Lewis Ludlam, who made quite an impact with his energetic performance in the previous match against Argentina, has earned himself a spot in the starting lineup. His 11 tackles during his cameo appearance in the 66th minute against the Pumas didn’t go unnoticed, and he’s stepping in for the suspended Tom Curry in the back row.
But Ludlam isn’t the only new face in the lineup. Kyle Sinckler and Joe Marler are also getting the nod, and they’ll be forming part of the formidable front row. This shake-up means Ellis Genge finds himself on the bench, while Dan Cole is completely out of the squad. It’s a testament to the depth of England’s squad that they can make such changes without compromising their strength.
One key absentee from the starting lineup is Billy Vunipola, who’s been serving a two-match ban following a red card incident in a warm-up match against Ireland. In his place, Ludlam will be wearing the number eight jersey, a position he’s familiar with, having started all five of England’s Six Nations games earlier this season at blind-side flanker. This shuffle also sees Ben Earl move to open-side flanker, with Captain Courtney Lawes completing the back row.
On the bench, you’ll find Vunipola, who’s undoubtedly a player to watch if he gets some game time. Additionally, Ben Youngs is preferred to Danny Care as the backup to starting scrum-half Alex Mitchell.
This match marks the fourth and final game of Owen Farrell’s suspension, so he’ll be watching from the stands once again. In his absence, George Ford gets another opportunity to make his case for the fly-half role, and his performance in the previous win over Argentina suggests he’s more than up to the task.
As for Japan, they’ve made some interesting changes too, bringing in three veterans of their 2019 World Cup campaign – hooker Shota Horie, flanker Pieter Labuschagne, and captain and number eight Kazuki Himeno. These experienced players could provide the stability and leadership Japan needs to face a tough England side. The addition of centre Tomoki Osada completes the changes to their starting lineup.
Japan’s journey in the last World Cup was remarkable as they reached the quarter-finals while hosting the tournament, defeating Ireland and Scotland along the way. However, their performance has stalled since then, with no wins against Six Nations or Rugby Championship sides in the last four years. Warm-up defeats by Samoa, Fiji, and Italy in their build-up to this World Cup have raised questions about their form. Nonetheless, their comprehensive win over Chile in their opening fixture of the competition suggests they are not to be underestimated.
With these changes and the contrasting recent form of both teams, the England vs. Japan match promises to be an exciting spectacle for rugby fans. It’s a clash of styles and strategies, and as always in rugby, anything can happen on the field. So, grab your popcorn and get ready for some high-quality rugby action on Sunday at the Stade de Nice!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Rugby World Cup England Japan Changes
Who are the notable players making changes in the England lineup for the Rugby World Cup match against Japan?
Lewis Ludlam, Kyle Sinckler, and Joe Marler are the key players making significant changes in the England lineup for the Rugby World Cup match against Japan.
Why is Lewis Ludlam in the spotlight for this match?
Lewis Ludlam’s energetic performance in the previous match against Argentina, where he made 11 tackles after coming on as a substitute, has earned him a starting spot in the England lineup against Japan.
What positions will Kyle Sinckler and Joe Marler be playing?
Kyle Sinckler and Joe Marler will be forming part of the front row in this crucial match for England.
Why is Billy Vunipola not in the starting lineup?
Billy Vunipola is not in the starting lineup because he is serving a two-match suspension following a red card incident in a warm-up match against Ireland.
How is England reshuffling their back row for this match?
In the absence of Billy Vunipola, England has opted to play Lewis Ludlam at number eight, with Ben Earl shifting to open-side flanker, and Captain Courtney Lawes completing the back row.
Who is England’s fly-half in the absence of Owen Farrell?
In the absence of Owen Farrell, George Ford will be the fly-half for England in this match.
Which experienced players have Japan brought in for this match?
Japan has brought in experienced players from their 2019 World Cup campaign, including hooker Shota Horie, flanker Pieter Labuschagne, and captain and number eight Kazuki Himeno.
How did Japan perform in the last Rugby World Cup?
Japan reached the quarter-finals as hosts of the last Rugby World Cup, securing impressive wins over Ireland and Scotland during their campaign.
What is the recent form of Japan leading up to this World Cup?
Japan’s recent form leading up to this World Cup has been mixed, with no wins against Six Nations or Rugby Championship sides in the last four years. They also suffered warm-up defeats by Samoa, Fiji, and Italy.
When and where will the England vs. Japan match take place?
The England vs. Japan match will be held on Sunday, 17th September at the Stade de Nice.
More about Rugby World Cup England Japan Changes
- BBC Sport – England v Japan: Lewis Ludlam, Kyle Sinckler and Joe Marler start in Rugby World Cup match
- Rugby World Cup Official Website
- Rugby World Cup 2019 – Japan’s Journey
- England Rugby Official Website
3 comments
Ludlam was gr8 in the last match, he got tht starrin spot, gud move! Kyle & Joe in front row 2, powerful duo.
Owen Farrell missin’ again, Ford at fly-half, let’s c how he does. Japan needs to find their groove.
Billy’s suspension, big blow 4 England. Ludlam at no. 8, interestin’. Japan, 2019 magic gone?