Jones looking to start with all guns blazing

England will launch their World Cup quest with all guns blazing after naming their strongest available side for tomorrow’s clash with Tonga at the Sapporo Dome.

Coach Eddie Jones has reverted almost entirely to the XV that sent Ireland spinning to a record defeat at Twickenham last month, with only Joe Cokanasiga and George Kruis missing.

The midfield that engineered a 57-15 victory that day is back with George Ford picked at fly-half and playing inside a centre duo of captain Owen Farrell and Manu Tuilagi.

Cokanasiga has been struggling with a knee injury and, despite being passed fit by the England management, is unable to even win a place on the bench.

Instead, Anthony Watson has been given the chance to continue his strong form of the warm-up Tests by starting on the right wing, with Jonny May and Elliot Daly completing the back three.

Providing three-quarter cover on the bench are Jonathan Joseph and Henry Slade, both of whom have overcome knee injuries to take part in the Sapporo opener.

Slade was unable to play in any of the four warm-up Tests but the Exeter playmaker is ready for his comeback as England look to launch the tournament with a statement performance.

Mako Vunipola is close to returning from a hamstring injury, so his deputy Joe Marler is preferred at loosehead prop and the only surprise pick up-front is Courtney Lawes’s presence at lock, with Kruis settling for a place on the bench.

Making a 10th successive appearance at number eight is Billy Vunipola. Either side of the big Saracen of Tongan heritage are flankers Tom Curry and Sam Underhill. Both are natural opensides but it is Curry who starts at six.

Picture: Getty. Head coach Eddie Jones with captain Owen Farrell.