Eddie Jones has recalled Danny Care for Saturday’s series-deciding match between England and Australia in Sydney. Jones has made three changes, with Care’s comeback being one among them. Lewis Ludlam and Ollie Chessum have replaced the injured Sam Underhill and Maro Itoje, respectively.
Care’s return is the only unforced alteration, with Jones opting for the 35-year-old veteran despite Jack van Poortvliet’s outstanding debut in Brisbane last weekend. Alongside the apprentice players Will Joseph and Henry Arundell, the 21-year-old Van Poortvliet is on the bench.
Ludlam’s selection was anticipated after Underhill was ruled out with a concussion, given that he was a substitute in the first two Tests. The same can be said of Chessum to some extent. It is the first start for the 21-year-old Leicester lock, but he has demonstrated his reliability as a substitute in Perth and Brisbane and has been selected over Nick Isiekwe.
Jones’s other selections remain unaltered, with Guy Porter earning his second cap in midfield, Courtney Lawes retaining the captaincy, and Tommy Freeman making his second appearance on the wing.
Ellis Genge, Jamie George, and Will Stuart continue in the front row, Jonny Hill is paired with Chessum in the second row, and Billy Vunipola is back at No. 8 once more. Marcus Smith and Owen Farrell maintain their combination at 10-12, while Jack Nowell and Freddie Steward comprise the back three.
