Seb Atkinson, Ollie Chessum, and George Furbank have been cleared to resume training after hurting themselves during the 45–22 victory against Australia earlier this month. The returning trio previously sat out the team's record-setting 78-15 win against Japan. Meanwhile, uncapped Harlequins flanker Jack Kenningham has joined the 36-man roster to cover for the injured Tom Curry. A triumph this weekend remains crucial if England hopes to reach the championship final on November 29.
Key points
Defeating New Zealand keeps England in the running to claim first place in the Northern H…: Defeating New Zealand keeps England in the running to claim first place in the Northern Hemisphere section.
Finishing atop the regional standings would secure England a spot in the inaugural tourna…: Finishing atop the regional standings would secure England a spot in the inaugural tournament final on November 29.
The returning players missed the record 78-15 victory over Japan but are now available fo…: The returning players missed the record 78-15 victory over Japan but are now available for Saturday's critical match.
Sources checked by our analysis pipeline: 1
LONDON, Nov 15 : England starters Seb Atkinson, Ollie Chessum and George Furbank have all been cleared to train again ahead of next Saturday's Nations Championship clash against New Zealand.
The trio were injured in the 45–22 victory over Australia at the start of the month's programme and missed Saturday's 78-15 victory over Japan, England's record score in the fixture.
Uncapped Harlequins flanker Jack Kenningham has also been called up to a 36-man squad in place of the injured Tom Curry, the Rugby Football Union said on Sunday.
A win over New Zealand would give England a chance of finishing top of the Northern Hemisphere section and taking a place in the November 29 final of the inaugural competition.
(Writing by Mark Gleeson in Cape Town; Editing by Toby Davis)
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