England's Chessum Switches to Back Row for Crucial Six Nations Clash with France
Ollie Chessum has been handed a new role as England head coach Steve Borthwick reveals his side for the Six Nations showdown with France. In a strategic shift, Chessum moves from the second row to add more heft to the back row, as Borthwick changes tack for a huge challenge against Les Bleus in Paris.
Strategic Shift for a Faltering Campaign
Chessum will shift position as Borthwick alters England's strategy in an attempt to conclude a collapsing Six Nations campaign on a high note against title-chasing France. The 25-year-old, who began on the bench in the historic defeat to Italy but had started in the second row in other championship games, has been moved into the back row and will start in the No 6 jersey.
By deploying Chessum as a flanker, Borthwick adds significant heft, carrying power, and a lineout option to the back row. This move also allows captain Maro Itoje and the improving Alex Coles to reunite as lock partners once again, strengthening the pack's core.
Back Row Philosophy and Injury Adjustments
Until now, the England coach has preferred a 'three sevens' philosophy in his back row composition, with combinations of Guy Pepper, Sam Underhill, Tom Curry, and Henry Pollock starting as flankers alongside Ben Earl – who plays as a No 8 but with the profile of a traditional No 7.
Pepper has been given the nod to start at openside flanker against France, with Underhill and Pollock available on the bench. This comes after Curry suffered a calf injury in the warm-up before the Italy game, forcing Borthwick to rethink his options.
A Rare 'Big Six' Selection
The selection of Chessum marks only the second time since the start of 2025 that Borthwick has opted for a "big six" in the back row. The other instance was Chandler Cunningham-South's presence in that jersey against the USA last summer. Despite the team's struggles, Borthwick has resisted making sweeping changes to the starting XV, having already made a record nine adjustments between the losses to Ireland and Italy.
England's lineout woes have been a concern, and Chessum's presence in the back row is intended to help alleviate these issues, providing a reliable target and additional aerial support.
Daunting Task in Paris
England now face the formidable challenge of trying to beat a wounded France side in Paris to avoid a first-ever one-win campaign in the Six Nations. Les Bleus appeared to be cruising towards a grand slam until they encountered a mesmerising Scotland outfit in Edinburgh last week, suffering a 50-40 defeat where the scoreline distinctly flattered Fabien Galthie's side.
The English backline remains unchanged from the match in Rome, offering players a shot at redemption. Ben Spencer and Fin Smith resume their half-back partnership, while Seb Atkinson and Tommy Freeman will have another opportunity to build their link-up in the centres. The back three consists of Cadan Murley, Tom Roebuck, and Elliot Daly.
Front Row Consistency and Milestone Caps
Up front, Chessum is the sole alteration to the starting XV. Jamie George starts at hooker once more, flanked by Ellis Genge and Joe Heyes. Two-time British and Irish Lion Luke Cowan-Dickie, Bevan Rodd, and Trevor Davison serve as the front-row replacements. Notably, Sam Underhill and Marcus Smith are in line to win their 50th caps when they come off the bench, marking a significant milestone in their international careers.
"It's a huge challenge under the lights in Paris against a very strong France side," said Borthwick. "England versus France is one of the great rivalries in international rugby, and we're looking forward to the occasion."
Regarding the two 50-cappers, Borthwick added: "Reaching 50 caps is a special achievement and a reflection of the consistency both Sam and Marcus have shown in an England shirt. They have both worked extremely hard for this milestone, and it's a credit to them and the people who have supported them along the way."
France's Title Hopes and Match Details
France will be eager to bounce back from their Scotland disappointment and can still win the Six Nations title. A bonus-point win in Le Crunch will be enough to seal the crown, adding extra intensity to the clash.
England XV to face France (Saturday 14 March, 8.10pm GMT): 1 Ellis Genge, 2 Jamie George, 3 Joe Heyes; 4 Maro Itoje (capt.), 5 Alex Coles; 6 Ollie Chessum, 7 Guy Pepper, 8 Ben Earl; 9 Ben Spencer, 10 Fin Smith; 11 Cadan Murley, 12 Seb Atkinson, 13 Tommy Freeman, 14 Tom Roebuck; 15 Elliot Daly.
Replacements: 16 Luke Cowan-Dickie, 17 Bevan Rodd, 18 Trevor Davison, 19 Chandler Cunningham-South, 20 Sam Underhill, 21 Henry Pollock; 22 Jack van Poortvliet, 23 Marcus Smith.
