England head coach Steve Borthwick has named his team for the crucial second Test against Argentina on Saturday, July 12. The clash, which will be broadcast live on Sky Sports, sees Borthwick making only a single change to the starting XV that triumphed in the opening Test. Luke Northmore has been handed his first start in an England shirt, stepping into the midfield to replace the injured Henry Slade.
The rest of the squad remains intact, underlining Borthwick’s faith in the unit that secured victory in the first leg of the two-match series. With a 6–2 bench split favoring forwards, England look set to continue their physically dominant style of play as they aim to wrap up the series in style.
Luke Northmore Steps Up: Debut Start at Centre
Harlequins’ centre Luke Northmore will make his first start for England, a significant moment in the 27-year-old’s career. Northmore has been on the fringes of England’s selection for some time, having previously been included in wider training squads and earning a few minutes off the bench in previous seasons. Now, he has the opportunity to prove himself in a high-stakes international setting.
His inclusion comes in place of Henry Slade, who has been ruled out for the remainder of the tour due to a hand injury sustained in the first Test. Slade’s absence is a significant blow to the England midfield, given his experience and playmaking ability. However, Borthwick has expressed full confidence in Northmore’s readiness and skillset.
Consistency and Continuity Key for England
Aside from the enforced change at centre, Borthwick has opted for continuity. This decision reflects his commitment to building cohesion and maintaining the momentum gained from the first Test’s win. The forward pack remains unchanged, providing stability in the set pieces and breakdowns — areas where England held a clear edge last weekend.
The backline, apart from Northmore’s inclusion, retains the same structure, with George Ford continuing at fly-half and Marcus Smith likely to play a dynamic role either starting at full-back or coming on as an impact substitute. The chemistry built among the backs in recent weeks is something Borthwick clearly wants to preserve.
Ford and George Share Captaincy Duties
Veteran fly-half George Ford will continue as co-captain, winning his 101st international cap in the process. Sharing the leadership duties with him is hooker Jamie George, who continues to be a vocal presence and leader in the pack.
The dual captaincy model has served England well under Borthwick, providing leadership across both the backs and forwards. Ford’s tactical nous and George’s experience in the engine room ensure that the squad is steered with calm authority and high rugby IQ.
Unchanged Bench Reflects Coaching Staff’s Confidence
The replacement bench remains identical to the one named for the first Test, reflecting Borthwick’s satisfaction with the impact made by the substitutes. The bench again features a 6–2 split between forwards and backs, highlighting England’s intent to dominate physically in the latter stages of the match.
This forward-heavy bench suggests that Borthwick anticipates a bruising encounter and wants to ensure that fresh legs can come on to maintain intensity, particularly in the scrum and lineout. Players like Theo Dan, Chandler Cunningham-South, and Tom Pearson could play crucial roles late in the game.
Key Players to Watch
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George Ford: With over 100 caps, Ford’s control of the game through kicking and game management will be vital. His leadership and ability to marshal the backline remain cornerstones of England’s strategy.
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Luke Northmore: All eyes will be on the Harlequins centre as he takes his place in the starting XV. Known for his strong running and reliable defense, Northmore has a golden chance to make a case for regular inclusion.
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Ben Earl: The dynamic back-rower has been in sensational form and offers a perfect blend of physicality and agility. His breakdown work and carrying ability could tilt the balance in England’s favor.
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Jamie George: As co-captain and a leader in the front row, George’s set-piece execution and vocal presence will be instrumental in steering the forward pack.
Series on the Line: England Look to Seal Victory
After a hard-fought win in the first Test, England now have the opportunity to seal the series 2–0 against Los Pumas. A series win in Argentina is never easy, and Borthwick’s men know they will face a fired-up opposition desperate to level the series on home soil.
Discipline, set-piece efficiency, and clinical execution in the red zone will be the key metrics by which England’s performance is judged. With the World Cup cycle now in full swing, each Test also serves as a proving ground for players hoping to cement their places in the squad.