Following a dominant 45-22 victory over Australia, England is set to face Japan in their next November Test. However, injuries to key players will necessitate changes to the squad, presenting an opportunity for several less-experienced players to make a significant impression, according to former Wales fly-half Dan Biggar.

Biggar, writing for the Daily Mail, expressed his admiration for England's performance against Australia but acknowledged that coach Steve Borthwick will be forced to alter his lineup. "Sometimes in international rugby, your best-laid plans are thrown up in the air and that’s what’s happened to England this week," Biggar stated.

Potential Breakthroughs for England

Biggar highlighted five players who could seize the opportunity against Japan:

  • Fraser Dingwall (centre): Biggar described Dingwall as a "glue" player, praising his ability to link others and provide information to the fly-half. Having played with Dingwall at Northampton, Biggar believes his connection with Fin Smith and Tommy Freeman makes him a strong candidate to start, especially with Seb Atkinson injured. Dingwall has a proven record in big games, having performed well against New Zealand last autumn.

  • Noah Caluori (wing): With Immanuel Feyi-Waboso ruled out due to an ankle injury, Caluori is a potential replacement. Biggar noted that Caluori, unlike Feyi-Waboso, offers aerial prowess alongside pace and enthusiasm. His selection could allow England to implement specific kicking strategies, particularly against Japan's smaller wingers.

Calouri has emerged as one of England's brightest prospects

  • Max Ojomoh (centre): Ojomoh, who impressed for England A, is another option at inside centre. Biggar acknowledged Ojomoh's "X Factor" attacking moments, citing his try and assist against Argentina. However, he suggested Dingwall might be favored for consistency.

Ojomoh looked solid against Australia but will find it hard to replace Dingwall at centre

  • Archie McParland (scrum-half): McParland, known for his speed, is a young academy player who is now challenging Alex Mitchell. Biggar believes an uncapped McParland could make his debut against Japan, serving as a backup to Jack van Poortvliet, who is filling in for the injured Mitchell.

Speed demon Archie McParland will be hoping to make his England debut against Japan

  • Max Hicks (back-row/lock): Hicks, who joined Newcastle Falcons from Perpignan in the summer, has impressed as an athletic back-five forward. Biggar noted that Borthwick typically doesn't select players from obscurity, suggesting Hicks' inclusion is significant and could point to future potential, possibly even as a "World Cup bolter."

Despite the Newcastle Red Bulls having a tough season Hicks continues to stand out and may very well be in Borthwick's plans for the World Cup

Biggar concluded that England should minimize changes against Japan, focusing on maintaining the confidence and continuity built from the Australia match. He believes this approach will allow England to build momentum heading into their crucial game against the All Blacks.