The Battle for England's Midfield: Ojomoh's Chance to Shine
The upcoming non-cap match between France XV and England is sparking intrigue, especially in the midfield department. Max Ojomoh, the Bath Rugby star, has been called up to the England squad, potentially setting up a fascinating midfield rivalry with Benhard Janse van Rensburg.
What makes this selection particularly intriguing is the omission of Ollie Lawrence, a centrally-contracted England player who started against the mighty All Blacks last autumn. Lawrence's recent form hasn't been up to scratch, which opens the door for Ojomoh to stake his claim.
The Midfield Conundrum
England's midfield has been a hot topic of discussion for some time. With the Six Nations campaign in the rearview mirror, the focus shifts to the Nations Championship and the quest for consistency in this pivotal position.
Ojomoh and Janse van Rensburg, the uncapped South Africa-born talent, will be eager to impress. The latter's eligibility for England is a story in itself, having initially been thought to be captured by the Springboks. Now, with the residency criteria met, he's in contention for the upcoming Tests against Fiji and Argentina.
Fresh Faces and Familiar Names
This England squad isn't just about the midfield. It's a blend of youth and experience, with a few surprises thrown in.
Ted Hill, the versatile forward from Bath, is back in the fold, adding depth to the pack. The inclusion of Archie van der Flier, cousin of Irish legend Josh, is a nod to the rich talent pool within the Lions family.
In the backs, Saracens' Noah Caluori, the top try-scorer in the Prem this season, could be a wildcard selection. With the likes of Adam Radwan and Tom Roebuck also in the mix, England's wing options are both exciting and unpredictable.
The French Challenge
France, despite missing key players from Top 14 semi-finalists, will pose a significant challenge. The inclusion of Bordeaux Begles centre Nicolas Depoortere, who hasn't played since March due to a shoulder injury, is a bold move. His partnership with Yoram Moefana could be a key factor in the French midfield.
Wing Theo Attisogbe, with an impressive try-scoring record at Test level, adds further threat to the French lineup.
Looking Ahead
This match provides an opportunity for England to experiment and assess their depth. With the Nations Championship on the horizon, every player will be eager to make a statement.
Personally, I believe the midfield battle will be a key area to watch. Ojomoh and Janse van Rensburg have a chance to lay down a marker, potentially reshaping England's midfield for years to come. The selection conundrum facing the England coaching staff is a fascinating one, and this game could provide some much-needed clarity.
