England Monitor Fitness of Freeman and Chessum Ahead of All Blacks Test
England find themselves sweating over the fitness of two key players, fly-half Tommy Freeman and lock Ollie Chessum, after both sustained injuries in last weekend’s win over Fiji. As Eddie Jones’ side prepare for a high-stakes showdown with New Zealand, the medical staff face a race against time to determine whether the Lions duo will be cleared to face the All Blacks on Saturday.
Injuries Sustained in Fiji Victory
The 38-18 victory over Fiji provided a confidence boost for England, but it came with a price. Freeman tweaked a shoulder during a late-phase attack, while Chessum reported discomfort in his back after a collision at the breakdown. Both players soldiered on through the remainder of the match, but the knock left England with a cautious outlook for the looming fixture.
Medical Assessment and Squad Implications
Team doctors conducted a thorough assessment on Sunday, with a decision expected as late as Thursday before the squad confirms its final 23-man lineup. Freeman’s versatility as a primary playmaker is especially valued, offering England a direct threat with ball-in-hand and a tactical kicking game. Chessum, who thrives in the engine room with his lineout form and physical presence, would be a significant asset against a powerful All Blacks pack if fit.
England’s depth at fly-half and lock has been stretched this season, and any late withdrawal would force adjustments across the starting XV. If Freeman is unable to play, England could lean more on game management and cross-field tactical alternatives, while Chessum’s absence would necessitate reshuffles in the second row and at the lineout, potentially increasing pressure on the scrum and set-piece efficiency.
All Blacks Clash: What It Means for England
With the All Blacks traditionally testing teams with high-tempo, high-intensity rugby, England’s strategy hinges on disciplined defense and quick breakdowns. Freeman’s distribution, decision-making under pressure, and ability to exploit space out wide are all crucial facets of the game plan. Chessum’s role is equally vital in stabilising the engine room, contesting every lineout, and providing the ballast needed to absorb New Zealand’s forward surge.
Coaches are hopeful both players can be declared fit, as their absence would prompt a rethink of England’s approach. The match represents not only a test of physical resilience but also a test of England’s ability to adapt mid-campaign, maintain structure, and execute precision rugby at the highest level.
What Fans and Analysts Are Saying
Analysts note that Freeman’s form in recent fixtures has been a bright spot for England, with his balance of running threat and game management a key attacking outlet. Chessum’s development into a reliable link for the lineout and his work rate around the park have earned him praise from coaching staff and supporters alike. The potential absence of either player would intensify the scrutiny on the rest of the squad to rise to the occasion against one of rugby’s most storied rivals.
Looking Ahead
As England prepare to decide on their starting team, the focus remains on recovery and readiness. The medical team will assess swelling, range of motion, and grip strength for Freeman, while Chessum will be evaluated for back stability and impact tolerance. A decision on both players will likely shape England’s match-day plans, including whether to deploy a more conservative game plan or to press the pace with Freeman’s creative flair and Chessum’s set-piece expertise.
Whatever the outcome, England’s pursuit of a statement victory over New Zealand continues to capture the imagination of rugby fans, with a week to go until kickoff and the chance to prove their mettle against the world’s top team.
