Furbank set for England return as Borthwick names side to face South Africa

George Furbank has been named to start for England against South Africa in Johannesburg, putting him on course for his first Test appearance in almost two years. He is selected at full-back in a back three with Cadan Murley and Immanuel Feyi-Waboso.

Steve Borthwick’s selection also includes Tommy Freeman and Seb Atkinson in midfield, while Jack van Poortvliet and Fin Smith form the half-back pairing. Up front, Jamie George captains the team from hooker in the absence of Maro Itoje, with Ellis Genge and Joe Heyes alongside him in the front row.

Furbank’s return follows a difficult injury-hit spell after his previous England outing against Japan in November 2024. Borthwick highlighted the full-back’s resilience and composure, framing him as an experienced option despite a relatively limited Test record.

England’s bench includes Henry Pollock, with Borthwick again looking to use the 21-year-old’s energy later in the match. For Murley, the fixture brings a high-profile wing contest against Cheslin Kolbe as England open their campaign away to the world champions.