England face a significant challenge as they prepare to meet South Africa at Ellis Park on Saturday in the opening match of the Nations Championship, with the squad adapting to the absence of key lock and captain Maro Itoje. Itoje has been rested for this campaign, marking the first time the player has been sidelined at the start of a tournament since his international debut a decade ago. Jamie George will assume the captaincy for the fixture.

Head coach Steve Borthwick is expected to adjust the squad accordingly, pairing Alex Coles alongside George Martin in the second row, while Ollie Chessum is set to continue at blindside flanker. Coles, having played a crucial role in Northampton’s Premiership title run, said he welcomed the chance to step into a leadership role during Itoje’s absence.

“I’ve learned a great deal from Maro over the years,” Coles said, describing Itoje as one of the world’s top locks. “While his absence is clearly a factor, it presents an opportunity for others to step up and develop. We saw similar growth in Argentina when many players were away on the Lions tour.”

Squad selections are still evolving ahead of the clash in Johannesburg. On the wings, Cadan Murley appears to have edged out Noah Caluori to partner Immanuel Feyi-Waboso. At full-back, Freddie Steward’s availability is uncertain following an ankle injury in training, potentially paving the way for George Furbank to earn his first Test cap since 2024. The scrum-half role remains unresolved, with Alex Mitchell, Ben Spencer, and Jack van Poortvliet all competing for selection.

The fixture poses a formidable test for England, who have only won once at Ellis Park, back in 1972. The current run of form is also a concern, with the team entering the championship after a four-match losing streak that culminated in their worst ever Six Nations performance.

Despite these challenges, Coles expressed confidence in England’s ability to rebound. “We didn’t deliver what we wanted in the Six Nations, but we’ve been working hard to improve and are excited to get back on the field,” he said.

South Africa, as reigning world champions, will provide a stern challenge, but England’s management and players appear determined to make the most of the opportunities presented during this transitional period.