Head coach Scott Borthwick has named England’s team for Saturday’s Rugby World Cup semi-final against South Africa in France.

Fullback Freddie Steward has been included in the starting XV. He has replaced the injured Marcus Smith.

England collected a 30-24 quarter-final victory over Fiji to reach this semi-final against the reigning champions Springboks.

“After an excellent few days of preparation in Paris, we look forward to the challenge of playing the world champions and number one ranked team in the world,” said Borthwick.

“Through this tournament the team has progressed, with the players repeatedly finding a way to win, sometimes in challenging circumstances. We will once again need to be at our very best this weekend as we face an excellent team in South Africa.

“There is no doubt the players will truly relish the challenge of knockout rugby under the lights in Paris. These players will, as they have done in every game of this tournament, give absolutely everything in the semi-final to get the result we want.

“I also know that our supporters will once again be there in their thousands, playing their part in backing the team with a full voice. To all those who have travelled and to all those lending their support and encouragement from home, I say thank you.”

New Zealand and Argentina will contest Friday’s first semi-final.

Starting XV: 15. Freddie Steward, 14. Jonny May, 13. Joe Marchant, 12. Manu Tuilagi, 11. Elliot Daly, 10. Owen Farrell (captain), 9. Alex Mitchell; 8. Ben Earl, 7. Tom Curry, 6. Courtney Lawes, 5. George Martin, 4. Maro Itoje; 3. Dan Cole, 2. Jamie George, 1. Joe Marler.

Substitutes: 16. Theo Dan, 17. Ellis Genge, 18. Kyle Sinckler, 19. Ollie Chessum, 20. Billy Vunipola, 21. Danny Care, 22. George Ford, 23. Ollie Lawrence.

Share.