I think Eddie ran out of changes to make to be honest, hence the inclusion of Haskell and non-inclusion of Simpson. But overall I’m pretty happy with the squad, certainly a team that fits with the idea of wanting to play a fast paced game. That back row has the potential to be the complete opposite of the WC back row, Beaumont, Clifford, Kvesic, Itoje are all capable of being getting about the park and playing at speed.
A little surprised at the inclusion of Devoto, but we’ve not got 12’s coming out of our ears and Devoto looks like a good candidate on paper, big, skillful and can play a bit but sometimes lacking in confidence and decision making. I assume Eddie has seen him as something he can work with.
Surprised at Tom Youngs omission to be honest but again, Eddie must have seen something he can work with in LCD.
Don’t think Cipriani can be too put out, only picking 2 fly halves was always going to mean he was left out, he’ll know he’s next cab off the rank if injuries happen to either of the incumbents.
Still think we’ll see a 10-12 of Ford Farrell against Scotland though.
Interestingly the average age of this squad is something like 23/24! On paper this has the potential to be an awesome squad but for inexperience alone I’m not expecting too much from this 6 Nations to be honest. Would be happy with third and a notable step in the right direction. With France now under Guy Noves and Scotland’s resurgence I think we could see one of the closest 6 Nations in a while!
