England rugby squad: Captain Maro Itoje returns but Courtney Lawes and Joe Marchant made to wait after Prem returns
- Posted on September 6, 2026
- By Sky Sport
- 1 Views
- 1 min read
In brief
Steve Borthwick's England rugby selection strategy prioritizes domestic form as Maro Itoje returns to lead the squad. While Courtney Lawes and Joe Marchant remain available after their stints abroad, the head coach has opted for caution, allowing them additional time to regain match sharpness in the Premiership. Meanwhile, rising talents Archie McParland and Kepueli Tuipulotu receive their first international call-ups, signaling the coaching staff's commitment to nurturing emerging talent alongside experienced performers.
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England rugby squad: Captain Maro Itoje returns but Courtney Lawes and Joe Marchant made to wait after Prem returns
Lawes and Marchant are available for selection after returning from French clubs, but Steve Borthwick wants to see how they bed back into the Gallagher Prem before deciding on their international futures; Archie McParland and Kepueli Tuipulotu get call-ups
