Tuilagi starts long road back
LONG WAIT: IT’S BEEN TWO YEARS SINCE HIS LAST TEST
Manu Tuilagi moved closer to a long-awaited Test comeback after being named on the bench yesterday for England’s final November international at Twickenham against Australia.
Also among the replacements was England co-captain Dylan Hartley – the first time the hooker has been left out of the starting XV by England coach Eddie Jones when available against a Tier One or leading nation.
Leicester centre Tuilagi was withdrawn from the bench on the eve of England’s nailbiting 12-11 victory over South Africa in their November opener with a groin strain after sustaining the injury during a training session at the squad’s Portugal camp.
The powerhouse midfielder was set to make his first international appearance since 2016 against the Springboks after recovering from serious groin, knee and hamstring injuries, only for his groin to tighten up.
Jones has made nine changes to the starting XV that beat Japan 35-15 at Twickenham last weekend for tomorrow’s clash.
Injuries to wings Chris Ashton and Jack Nowell have led to the recall of Jonny May, with Joe Cokanasiga, who played from the start in his debut against Japan, retaining his place.
Co-captain Owen Farrell, on the bench against Japan, is reunited with Ben Youngs as England revert to their first-choice halfback pairing.
Meanwhile, Ben Te’o returns in midfield after Alex Lozowski was dropped.
Courtney Lawes moves from the back row to the second row alongside Maro Itoje while Sam Underhill, who starred against New Zealand a fortnight ago, is included at openside flanker.
Jamie George, who started in place of Hartley against Japan, retains his place at hooker.
Victory would mean England had won three of their four November internationals, with the only loss a 16-15 defeat by world champions New Zealand.
Jones has won all five of his Tests against Australia since taking charge of England. –