Borthwick has made changes in the hope his finishers can match up to the job description.
All-brawn Luke Cowan-Dickie comes into the squad in place of all-court Theo Dan. The six-two split on the bench between forwards and backs has been abandoned in favour of a more conventional five-three split, meaning the pack won’t be shuffled as dramatically in the closing stages.
The only change to the starting XV is a positional switch in midfield, with Ollie Lawrence swapping to outside centre and Henry Slade coming inside to 12.
The theory is that it should enable Lawrence – restricted to two carries against New Zealand – to get the ball in more space.
However, the revival of a dual playmaker shape that worked fitfully under Eddie Jones has potential weaknesses.
Slade will have to lead the backline defence from a different perspective, clocking dangers both inside and outside. Just back from shoulder surgery, he is also placed in the high-traffic lane where Lawrence made 27 tackles against the All Blacks. Len Ikitau – Australia’s hard-running inside centre – is sure to test Slade early.
On the other side of the ball, England certainly need something to spark their attack.
Against New Zealand, they were heavy on perspiration, but light on inspiration.
England’s solitary try came from a smart Marcus Smith intercept of a ponderous pass, but they rarely looked as if they could pick a way though the defence via their own wit.
Among the world’s top 10 nations, only Wales have been less efficient in turning entries into the 22 into points this year.
England have some fine attacking talents. But, whether it is the system or individuals within it, potential has not been cashed in as points.
If it had, their last four defeats – all by a converted score or less – could have been very different.
England’s repeated failure to get over the horizon and out of sight will give 5-1 outsiders Australia hope.
The instant installation of Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii in the backline will add to it, even if the weight of expectation will surely sit heavy on the 21-year-old.
