\n<\/p>\n
Tommy Freeman is rapidly approaching world-class status.<\/p>\n
The package that he brings to Test rugby – the pace, size, aerial ability and appetite for the ball – is pretty special.<\/p>\n
He was a starter for the British and Irish Lions in all three Tests against Australia in the summer and he is inked into this England team as one of those who will always have a place when fit.<\/p>\n
However, there is a question over which number Borthwick will write next to Freeman’s name.<\/p>\n
This was Freeman’s 23rd England appearance but only his third as a centre.<\/p>\n
Considering that relatively paltry midfield experience, he was pretty damn good against Wales.<\/p>\n
He hit superb lines, either hitting the ball up bravely into the heart of Wales defence or acting as a decoy, and worked instinctively with Northampton team-mate Fraser Dingwall inside him at 12.<\/p>\n
They are turning into a dangerous and cohesive pairing – and England have been crying out for a midfield combination with those qualities for ages.<\/p>\n
Where once the supply of centres was quite low, there are now a bunch of alternatives.<\/p>\n
Ollie Lawrence, who is working his way back from a minor knee injury, may be available for Scotland. Max Ojomoh was very impressive against Argentina in the autumn. Seb Atkinson has credit in the bank from his performances on the summer tour of Argentina.<\/p>\n
It means England can mix and match according to the opposition.<\/p>\n
Do they want a punch in midfield or the ability to distribute quickly into wide channels? Gas around the outside or the ability to probe behind with kicks?<\/p>\n
The ability to change tactics with different midfield selection is very, very exciting.<\/p>\n
South Africa – the gold standard for everyone in world rugby at the moment – have the same.<\/p>\n
The mix of Damian de Allende, Jesse Kriel, Canan Moodie, Damian Willemse and even Andre Esterhuizen gives them different ways of playing.<\/p>\n
That adaptability is a fantastic attribute for any team.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n