Ojomoh Set for Debut as Feyi-Waboso Returns to Face USA
England’s Fresh Faces Ready for USA Challenge
Bath centre Max Ojomoh headlines a trio of uncapped players in England’s starting XV as they prepare to face the United States in Washington DC this Saturday. The 24-year-old, following in the footsteps of his father Steve—an England international in the 1990s—will wear the number 12 jersey, partnering Harlequins’ Luke Northmore in midfield.
Joining Ojomoh in earning their first England caps are Sale full-back Joe Carpenter and Gloucester lock Arthur Clark, as head coach Steve Borthwick reshuffles his squad for this mid-summer clash. The match also marks the return of Exeter wing Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, who missed England’s recent wins over Argentina due to suspension after a high tackle in a warm-up against France.
Borthwick’s Strategic Rotation
With key players absent—many on British and Irish Lions duty—Borthwick has seized the opportunity to test emerging talent. Feyi-Waboso’s inclusion is particularly notable after his comeback was stalled by injury and suspension, but his explosive pace and attacking flair could prove vital against the USA defense.
Leicester scrum-half Jack van Poortvliet gets a start, while the front row features Sale’s Bevan Rodd and Asher Opoku-Fordjour alongside Northampton hooker Curtis Langdon. In the back row, Newcastle’s Guy Pepper earns his first start after impactful substitute appearances in Argentina, with Harlequins duo Chandler Cunningham-South and Alex Dombrandt completing the pack.
Among the replacements, Bristol’s Gabriel Oghre—called up following injuries to Jamie George and Theo Dan—could make his Test debut alongside backs Charlie Atkinson and Oscar Beard.
USA’s Uphill Battle
The Eagles, ranked 16th in the world after a narrow 31-24 loss to Spain last weekend, will be eager to make a statement against an England side in transition. While England holds a perfect 7-0 record against the USA, their last meeting in 2021 saw a spirited American performance in a 43-29 defeat.
This match takes place at Audi Field, a 20,000-seat soccer stadium in Washington DC, as part of the growing push to expand rugby’s footprint in the USA. The city is among 27 potential hosts for the 2031 and 2033 Rugby World Cups, signaling the nation’s ambition to become a key player in the sport.
Borthwick’s Confidence in New Blood
Borthwick praised his squad’s commitment: We know the USA will present a tough challenge, but the spirit in this group has been outstanding. Every player has pushed themselves, and those selected have earned this opportunity.
With a mix of youth and experience, England aims to continue their winning momentum while giving invaluable exposure to rising stars like Ojomoh and Feyi-Waboso.
Match Preview: England vs. USA
Date: Saturday, 19 July
Kick-off: 22:05 BST
Venue: Audi Field, Washington DC
Coverage: Live text commentary on BBC Sport
England Starting XV:
Carpenter; Feyi-Waboso, Northmore, Ojomoh, Murley; Ford (captain), Van Poortvliet; Rodd, Langdon, Opoku-Fordjour, Coles, Clark, Cunningham-South, Pepper, Dombrandt.
Replacements: Oghre, Baxter, Davison, Hill, B Curry, Randall, C Atkinson, Beard.
As England prepares to face the USA, the spotlight is on fresh talent and the team’s depth ahead of bigger challenges this season. The match offers fans a glimpse of the future—one where emerging stars like Ojomoh and Feyi-Waboso could play pivotal roles.
Related Topics:
England Rugby Union, Rugby World Cup, International Rugby
