New role to fill for Freeman as Wallabies roll into town

Tommy Freeman will begin his transition to outside centre after being named in the No 13 jersey by Steve Borthwick for England’s first match of the Autumn Nations Series against Australia this weekend.

- LUKE BAKER

Northampton Saints star Freeman has won the bulk of his 21 England caps as a winger, where he also made three Test appearances for the British and Irish Lions over the summer, but will now take on a new role at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, on Saturday.

The 24-year-old, who ran in four tries for Saints against Saracens on Friday, has long seen his future at outside centre and started at No 13 against Wales during the Six Nations earlier this year following an injury to Ollie Lawrence.

Now Borthwick has decided to fully bed his powerful presence in the centres with the 2027 Rugby World Cup less than two years away. Earlier this week, Freeman’s Northampton teammate Alex Mitchell - who starts at scrumhalf against the Wallabies - backed his compatriot to shine in a new position.

“Tommy’s confidence is through the roof and his form is amazing,” said Mitchell. “He will be as good at 13 as he is on the wing and it’s going to be exciting to see him go there and see how he pushes on.

“It’s a different position and he appreciates that, but not too much changes with him - he will just want to get the ball in his hands and try to get over people and get past people.

“He’s got the speed, the power, the height. He understands the game. We know that if he puts that all together, he’s one hell of a player. He’s showing that at the moment.” George Ford was outstanding on England’s summer tour to Argentina and the USA and will start against Australia (PA)