David Flatman expects some changes to the norm when England face Australia at Twickenham next weekend in The Independent on Sunday.
“When the Wallabies arrive at Twickenham to take on England next week, a few points of tradition will be challenged. Whatever the competition, year or venue, some things have always been assumed in the build-up to this most enticing of fixtures: England's scrum will annihilate the prop-weak Aussies; and the Wallaby back line will be too
athletic, thick-thighed and naturally elusive for the straight-up-and-down English.
“These days, however, things are somewhat different. While Ryan Cross, at outside centre, might be considered a strapping lad, he could probably fit quite comfortably into Matt Banahan's pocket, should the need arise. At 6ft 7in and 115kg, Banahan wins the prize for the most monstrous piece of meat on the field, but it is at inside centre where England will look to defy rugby legend.
“Shane Geraghty has the poacher's eye combined with the swiftness of feet to cause Australia problems. With Jonny Wilkinson and Dan Hipkiss either side of him, incoming runners will be dropped like tranquilised buffalo and he will just have to concentrate on what he does best: threaten the defence. Those Wallaby forwards who find themselves defending in midfield will have their work cut out if England win clean ball and, after a few heavy scrummaging exchanges, those legs might not have the zip to cover a player like Geraghty.”
RSS feed
