I think that's why Bennett will go with McGilvary and Hall on the wings as they're both powerful runners who will take the ball out hard and direct. It's also why I think we'll struggle in the centres yet again, as I don't think Watkins, Percival or Shenton offer the physicality needed. I'm not sure about playing a second-row at centre, but if he's fit maybe McQueen is worth a go alongside Watkins to beef things up, or even play Bateman there? I'd rather Bateman play at centre as I don't think we can get away with being too lightweight in the back row.

Looks like a first choice 13 in the warm-up match.

Interesting that Bateman is at right centre.

Oh dear. I am not saying Bateman isn't capable, but he isn't the 2nd best centre we have

Seems like a very negative option to me, as though we are more bothered about what they will do than what we will do. Unless Bennett is saying to himself "Percival has one centre spot, let's see the other two battle it out for the second spot"

I agree. England never seem to learn NOT to select players out of position. If Bennet is concerned about defensive capabilities of his centres then Shenton is an automatic pick as he's a great defender. He may not be the most brilliant attacking centre but, then, neither is the second-row forward known as Batemen.

Did you mean Watkins?