Joe Marchant recalled to England training squad for Nations Championship

Joe Marchant has been recalled to England’s training squad for next month’s Nations Championship as Steve Borthwick faces injury disruption to his midfield options.

Marchant receives his first England call-up since the 2023 World Cup after his two-year spell at Stade Français ended with his return to the Gallagher Prem with Sale this season, making him available for selection once again.

The 30-year-old is joined in the 36-man group that on Sunday begins preparations for the autumn opener against Australia by Will Joseph, the Gloucester centre whose form has lit up the Prem in the opening four rounds. Joseph, the younger brother of former England star Jonathan Joseph, made his only Test appearance during the 2022 tour of Australia but will be looking to press his claim in the absence of Seb Atkinson.

Atkinson, who is pencilled in to start against the Wallabies at inside centre, will join the squad at their Surrey base but during this camp will be limited to rehabilitating a knee injury. Adding to Borthwick’s problems in midfield is the concussion sustained by Benhard Janse van Rensburg, who has not played since taking a head knock on club duty for Bristol on 3 October.