Bath trio still in the mix to face All Blacks

SAM Underhill, Zach Mercer and Charlie Ewels are still in the mix to play against New Zealand at Twickenham on Saturday.

Head coach Eddie Jones has retained 25 players to continue England’s preparation for their second Autumn Test against the double, reigning world champions (3pm).

Elliott Stooke and Joe Cokanasiga have been released back to Bath Rugby; meaning they could be given game time against Newcastle Falcons at Kingston Park in the Premiership Rugby Cup tomorrow night.

Sale Sharks flanker Tom Curry will remain in camp while his ankle is assessed further, but his injury paves the way for a possible start for Underhill on the openside.

Mercer came off the bench for Curry in the 12-11 win against South Africa last weekend and might have done enough to convince Jones to start him at number eight against the All Blacks.

Ewels also came off the bench against the Springboks, but he faces extra competition on top of Maro Itoje and George Kruis from fit-again Courtney Lawes for a place in the matchday 23, which will be announced today.

Henry Slade is eager to continue his centre partnership with Ben Te’o when England end their four-year wait to face New Zealand.

The duo played together for the first time in the victory over South Africa, with Te’o making his maiden appearance since May after recovering from thigh and calf injuries.

Their performances improved in tandem with England’s fightback against the Springboks and they are expected to keep their places when head coach Jones names his starting XV for the All Blacks’ visit to Twickenham.

Ahead of today’s team announcement, Slade said: “It feels like we’ve got good balance across the midfield.

“Ben and I both have different strengths which enable us to play together.”

Among the areas being sharpened by England is the scrum, which fluctuated in quality against the Springboks and will need to improve.

“We started off really well and then dipped off,” scrum coach Neal Hatley said. “New Zealand have improved hugely at the scrum.

“Six of that pack work together for Canterbury and then work together for the All Blacks.”