England faces a mounting injury crisis in their back three ahead of Saturday’s Test against Fiji, as the team seeks to end a five-match losing streak. The match is scheduled to take place at the Hill Dickinson Stadium in Liverpool, following England’s heavy defeat by South Africa at Ellis Park last weekend.

Wing Cadan Murley and full-back Freddie Steward are both doubtful due to shoulder and ankle injuries, respectively. The severity of their conditions remains unclear as head coach Steve Borthwick awaits further medical assessments before deciding if additional players will need to be called into the squad. “I don’t know the extent of the bumps and bruises,” Borthwick said, adding that he will make decisions once he has a full understanding of the injuries.

The team’s injury concerns deepen with the recent loss of George Furbank, who underwent an appendectomy at a hospital in Johannesburg on Friday. Furbank was withdrawn from the starting lineup against South Africa, replaced by Marcus Smith.

Amid these setbacks, South African-born Benhard Janse van Rensburg becomes eligible to represent England on residency grounds starting Wednesday. He is expected to make his Test debut against Fiji, potentially playing at inside or outside centre. Borthwick praised Janse van Rensburg’s skill set and character, highlighting his strong ball-carrying ability, tackling, work rate off the ball, and distribution. “He adds a lot,” the coach said, emphasizing the player’s positive and energetic approach.

England will be under pressure to arrest their recent poor form as they prepare to face a determined Fiji side, with their selection and fitness uncertainties adding to the challenge heading into the fixture.