England head coach Steve Borthwick acknowledged criticism over selecting South Africa-born centre Benhard Janse van Rensburg but insisted his duty is to build the best team with eligible players. Janse van Rensburg, 29, is training with England as he completes a five-year residency, making him eligible for his debut this July. Former England scrum-half Danny Care questioned the choice ahead of domestic players Ollie Lawrence and Max Ojomoh.

Borthwick's stance aligns with England's policy of picking only domestic-based players, which currently excludes Toulouse's Jack Willis and Toulon's Kyle Sinckler. The coach cited precedents like Fiji-born Nathan Hughes and Samoan centre Manu Tuilagi, who became England stalwarts via residency. World Rugby extended the residency requirement from three to five years in 2020.

Borthwick separately addressed ongoing individual management for captain Maro Itoje and Ben Spencer, while confirming Byron McGuigan's full-time addition to the coaching staff focusing on collision and aerial skills. The selections underscore Borthwick's commitment to his selection criteria despite debate over opportunity for homegrown talent.