England vs Wales Prediction & Betting Tips - Test Matchs

Prediction published on 10/08/2023, 16:15  by Devesh Jaganath | Modified on 12/08/2023 at 04:30 in Rugby Predictions

England will be hoping for an improved performance this week when they take on Wales at Twickenham Stadium on Saturday, August 12th. This highly anticipated match marks the second encounter of a thrilling summer double-header between these fierce rivals, serving as a crucial warm-up ahead of the upcoming Rugby World Cup 2023, set to kick off in France next month. The stage is set for an intense showdown, especially after England were fairly convincingly beaten 20-9 in their previous clash at Cardiff last week. England's head coach, Steve Borthwick, has unleashed a lineup of heavy hitters for this one in a determined effort to gain some momentum heading closer to the main tournament. The starting XV sees the inclusion of influential figures such as Owen Farrell, the commanding No 8 Billy Vunipola, the dynamic hooker Jamie George, the formidable lock Maro Itoje, and the agile wing Elliot Daly. The decision of adding more brute strength to their ranks comes in response to the defeat last week, where the Welsh frontline proved too much for the English to handle. England now aims to address the shortcomings observed in their previous match, which echoed issues faced during the Six Nations, primarily struggling to convert pressure into tries and lapses in defensive play.

Wales, on the other hand, arrive in London with a renewed sense of confidence following their resounding triumph at the Principality. That victory has seemingly injected optimism, with coach Warren Gatland looking to replicate a revival similar to the one he masterminded ahead of the 2011 World Cup. The Welsh side's morale is high as they prepare to face England at Twickenham, with hooker Dewi Lake taking on the captaincy for the first time, succeeding Jac Morgan. Gatland's strategic reshuffle sees a staggering 15 changes from the team that secured a 20-9 victory over England in Cardiff. Among the notable changes, Ospreys fly-half Owen Williams receives an opportunity after missing the warm-up camps in Turkey and Switzerland, partnering with Tomos Williams in the half-back position. Wales and England have won two matches each in their last four encounters; however, the Welsh have not won in England since September 2015.