A traditional match that always gives fans the chance to enjoy a bit of friendly rivalry, the England v Barbarians meet this Sunday will most certainly be an occasion not to be missed.
England v Barbarians Preview
It will be a great comedown from the tense battle that is Saturday’s Premiership final, but no doubt English fans will be hoping for an exciting game that previews the standard of Stuart Lancaster’s side in a World Cup year. Eyes will also be firmly fixed on those players who are back in the line-up to prove their worth and remind Lancaster how talented they are, such as Marland Yarde and Danny Cipriani. Young playmaker Henry Slade, who has been Exeter’s rising star, promises to display some serious moments of magic in the next few years and features alongside fellow uncapped team mate Elliot Daly, who was also included in Lancaster’s 50 strong World Cup training squad that was announced last week.
Joe Launchbury will be cheered back onto hallowed turf after being out of action for six months following a neck injury. The lock has 22 caps to his name and returned to rugby earlier this month when he came on as a replacement during Wasps’ Midlands derby against Leicester Tigers. This is Launchbury’s first appearance in an England shirt since the tour of New Zealand last summer, and the former Player of the Year will be itching to show the Baa-Baas just what he is made of.
In their 125th anniversary year, the Barbarians will be led out by retiree Shane Jennings, who’s glittering professional career comes to an end this summer. His 13 international caps for Ireland contribute to the 466 caps that the Baa-Baas line up boast, including George Smith’s 111 with The Wallabies and almost 70 from former All Black speedster Joe Rokocoko.
British and Irish Lion Adam Jones will bolster the scrum to rival England’s pack strength. A certain Graham Rowntree will be hoping his forwards can dominate the set piece against a fiery and blood-thirsty Barbarian front row and give fellow teams in Pool A something to be afraid of.
This is the first glimpse at what Lancaster has to offer; ok, a few big names are missing, some because of the Premiership final, but mostly because this friendly is the perfect opportunity to witness the capability of players who are on the perimeters of an Elite squad call up. In such an important year, it is vital that England has a wide pool of talent that is experienced enough to contend with international all stars on a global stage such as the World Cup. The Baa-Baas look to pick fault when attacking the men in white (captained by Lee Dickson) and prove to be a challenge in defence. Whatever the result, an occasion steeped in such history is undoubtedly going to lend itself to a magnificent 80 minutes of rugby.
England v Barbarians
Twickenham Stadium, London
Sunday 31st May, 3pm KO
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