England face a late fitness test for key backs
England are monitoring the match sharpness of two influential backs, fly-half Tommy Freeman and captain Ollie Chessum, as they prepare for a high-stakes battle with New Zealand. The duo sustained injuries during England’s 38-18 win over Fiji last weekend, casting doubt over their availability for the much-anticipated All Blacks clash.
Freeman, who has been central to England’s attacking shape this autumn, reported tightness in his range of motion after the Fiji victory. Coaches and medical staff are reviewing scan results and session data to determine whether he can take the field against one of rugby’s toughest opponents. The fly-half role is especially critical against New Zealand’s high-tempo pressure, and England will be keen to retain Freeman’s vision and distribution if he is able to pass the late fitness test.
Chessum, who has emerged as a leaders’ figure among England’s forwards, experienced a concern that has left his involvement in doubt. The lock has been pivotal in set-piece stability and in carrying momentum in broken play, making his presence valuable for England’s plan to withstand the All Blacks’ physicality at the breakdown. The medical team will certainly consider the long-term impact of taking unnecessary risks on a player who has already contributed significantly this season.
How England could adapt if the pair miss out
If Freeman is unable to feature, England could turn to alternative playmakers who can slot into the 10 channel without disrupting the balance of their backline. Options include shifting a more traditional inside-centre to 10 or deploying a backup fly-half who has trained with the squad, maintaining continuity while giving the team a fresh look against New Zealand.
With Chessum sidelined, the England pack would need to rely on their depth in the second-row and a potential regrouping of the eight-man unit. Coaches may opt for a more conservative, ball-carrier-heavy approach to blunt New Zealand’s blitzing defence, using the set-piece to create pressure while protecting the young inside backs from excessive territorial risk.
What this means for England’s game plan
England have already shown resilience throughout the autumn series, and the squad’s depth is being tested in real time. The approach against New Zealand is likely to emphasize discipline, accuracy, and elite contact work, with the forwards aiming to win penalties and secure quick ball. The coaches will look for clean lines from Freeman if he plays, combining tempo with the outside backs’ ability to exploit space behind the line.
Additionally, Chessum’s potential absence could accelerate the promotion of reserve forwards into the matchday squad, possibly altering the balance of power in the set-piece battles. The coaching staff are known for their thorough preparation, and they will be weighing the risk of bringing players back too soon against the strategic value of having a full-strength squad for a match of such magnitude.
What fans should watch for in the buildup
All eyes will be on the final Friday session as England confirm their starting XV. The medical team’s updates will be closely scrutinised, along with any last-minute tweaks to the forwards’ lineup and backline configuration. If Freeman and Chessum pass late fitness checks, England will likely field a familiar starting XV, aiming to execute a balanced game plan that leverages the kicking game, territorial pressure, and quick-ball contest at the breakdown.
Regardless of selections, the fixture against the All Blacks remains one of rugby union’s great tests of nerve and technique. England’s ability to adapt under pressure could decide whether they produce a statement performance or fall short against the world champions.
Bottom line
Freeman and Chessum’s fitness will be the talking point as England prepare for New Zealand. The outcome of the late fitness tests will shape England’s lineup and strategy, but the squad’s depth and tactical versatility give them a fighting chance in a match that will test every facet of their game.
