Courtney Lawes and Joe Marchant must "go and play well" for Sale Sharks to earn a spot in England's autumn squad, according to defence coach Richard Wigglesworth. Both players returned to the Gallagher Premiership after stints in France, with Lawes at Brive and Marchant at Stade Francais. Wigglesworth emphasized that competition is fierce, saying, "There are some good players in the room and to pick them you have to leave someone else out." He praised Lawes' experience and leadership, calling him an "England legend," and noted Marchant's proximity, adding, "I have actually bumped into Joe Marchant walking around living quite close to me." The coach stressed that individual cases vary, but Lawes' determination to return for the 2027 World Cup in Australia is impressive.

England face Australia on November 8, part of the new Nations Championship starting November 6.