❌ 2. Freddie Steward
Not long ago, Freddie Steward was seen as England’s most reliable player. Under the high ball, he was untouchable. Defensively, he was a wall. At just 23, he looked set to hold the 15 shirt for a decade.
But in a shock move, Borthwick has pivoted towards Marcus Smith at fullback – despite the Harlequins star being anything but a specialist in the role. It’s a bold gamble, but one that has left Steward out in the cold.
The Leicester Tiger’s exclusion highlights just how ruthless Borthwick can be. Under almost any other coach, Steward would be a guaranteed starter. Instead, his once-ironclad position has vanished almost overnight.
Fans are scratching their heads, and you can’t help but feel sympathy for a player who hasn’t exactly put a foot wrong.
❌ 3. Theo Dan
Last year looked like the making of Theo Dan. The explosive hooker was billed as the natural successor to Jamie George and even made the 2023 World Cup squad.
But the rise has been followed by a rapid fall. Dan was among the players denied a central contract, and he now finds himself behind George and the resurgent Luke Cowan-Dickie in the pecking order.
At just 23, time is still on his side, but unless he forces his way back at club level, Dan risks becoming another England nearly-man.
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