England’s midfield is stuck in the past, and it’s time for a revolution. As Steve Borthwick prepares to unveil his squad for the Autumn Nations Series, the spotlight falls on a bold call: Henry Slade, the veteran with 74 caps, should make way for Bath’s dynamic duo, Max Ojomoh and Ollie Lawrence. But here’s where it gets controversial—is England’s loyalty to Slade holding them back from embracing the future? Let’s dive in.
When the England squad is announced next Monday, expect seismic shifts. The competition is fiercer than ever, and simply being ‘good’ won’t cut it in a nation brimming with rugby talent. The midfield, in particular, demands a rethink. Henry Slade, often likened to a scented candle—pleasant but ineffective—has failed to ignite on the international stage. His 59% pass completion rate since 2020 is alarming, and his defensive lapses have become a recurring nightmare. While his versatility is praised, it’s a jack-of-all-trades act without the mastery. Slade’s presence feels like a relic of the past, a player who, despite his experience, hasn’t evolved with the game’s demands.
And this is the part most people miss—Slade’s inconsistencies aren’t just anecdotal; they’re backed by data. His erratic reads, passive tackling, and tendency to disrupt defensive structures have cost England dearly. It’s not about being harsh; it’s about acknowledging that sentimentality has no place in Test rugby. England needs players who command respect, not familiarity.
Enter Max Ojomoh, Bath’s rising star and the epitome of modern midfield excellence. Ojomoh plays with precision, intelligence, and control. His 88% pass completion rate this season speaks volumes, as does his 91% tackle success. He’s not just a highlight reel; he’s a system player who thrives under pressure, creating space where none exists and linking play seamlessly. Ojomoh is the architect England needs, someone who doesn’t just fit into the system but elevates it.
Alongside him is Ollie Lawrence, the Premiership’s most destructive outside centre. Lawrence is a force of nature—his contact work is brutal, his post-tackle metres relentless, and his ability to break defensive lines unmatched. He’s matured into a player who combines raw power with tactical brilliance, offering England a gainline weapon they’ve sorely missed. Together, Ojomoh and Lawrence are more than just players; they’re a statement of intent.
But here’s the controversial question: Is England’s reluctance to drop Slade a fear of change, or a genuine belief in his untapped potential? While his supporters point to his calmness and experience, these traits pale in comparison to the urgency and impact Ojomoh and Lawrence bring. Test rugby is unforgiving, and England can’t afford to wait for Slade to find his form—especially when better options are knocking at the door.
The stats don’t lie. Ojomoh and Lawrence dominate in every metric that matters—pass completion, tackle success, line breaks, and dominant carries. They’re built for the modern game, playing fast, flat, and forward. Slade, on the other hand, feels like a relic of a bygone era, a scented candle flickering in the wind.
So, what’s your take? Is it time for England to embrace the future with Ojomoh and Lawrence, or is there still a place for Slade in the squad? Let’s spark the debate—comment below and share your thoughts!
