Tom Roebuck has been called up for England’s squad to face reigning double world-champions South Africa tomorrow (Saturday 16 November).
The Sale Sharks winger, who grew up on the Wirral, has been called in to replace Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, who is side-lined through injury after taking a heavy knock to the head in the 42-37 defeat to Australia last week.
Roebuck hasn’t been named in the starting XV but should come on during the game, it will be only his second senior test cap for England, with his first being during the 2024 Summer Series in Japan and New Zealand.
The 23-year-old came on in the side’s 52-17 demolition of Japan, and his former school, Wirral Grammar School for Boys, said they “couldn’t be prouder” of his latest call up.
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Roebuck has 13 appearances for the England under-18 and under-20 sides, but hasn’t been able to fully breakthrough until these most recent series.
Sale Sharks flanker, and England back-row Tom Curry has also been taken out of the England squad ahead of England’s clash with the Springboks.
With a history of injury problems, he has spoken openly before about how he ‘curled up in a ball’ and broke down to his girlfriend, Lilla, when forced into hip surgery last season.
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In that same February he went through said surgery after being diagnosed with femoroacetabular impingement syndrome; a condition of abnormal movement within the hip joint.
However, he managed to work hard in recovery and played a big part in England’s strong opening against Australia, before a head on collision with man-mountain Rob Valetini saw him replaced after 23 minutes.
The Red Roses were cruising at 15-3 at the time, and his departure made way for a dramatic closing sequence, with the Wallabies’ Max Jorgensen stealing a try at the death for victory.
South Africa boss, Rassie Erasmus has spoken about the pressure mounting on England’s Stephen Borthwick, saying: “When you lose two games, even if it’s by a point or last-minute try, the pressure does start to build. I’ve been there and I certainly know how quickly that can get to you. Now Steve is a bit under pressure.”
Borthwick responded by saying: “We are excited for the challenge. Excited to be back playing at the Allianz Stadium again against South Africa. We know the calibre of the opposition and I think the players are really looking forward to it.”
It’s built up to be a top-quality encounter, and the Wirral community will be watching on eagerly to see if Roebuck can come on to make the difference.
