Freddie Steward steps in for George Furbank in England's second Test against New Zealand

In a setback for England ahead of their second Test against New Zealand, full-back George Furbank has been ruled out of the Auckland match due to a back injury. Furbank, who was identified as a key threat by the opposition, will be replaced by Freddie Steward, making his first appearance for England since February. Steward, known for his counter-attacking abilities, steps in as England aims to maintain their attacking prowess despite the absence of Furbank, who has been a stalwart in the team's backline with 33 caps. Despite the disappointment of losing Furbank, England's scrum coach, Tom Harrison, expressed confidence in Steward's capabilities, highlighting the depth in the squad. Steward, who has been diligently preparing for this opportunity, will bring his own strengths to the team, adapting to the role previously held by Furbank. The shift in focus towards a more attacking style reflects the team's strategy as they face the All Blacks in the final Test of the series. Steward's last competitive appearance dates back to May, adding an element of anticipation to his return to international rugby. The young player's readiness to step up in challenging circumstances underscores the team's adaptability and preparation for unforeseen changes. As England navigates the absence of Furbank, they remain committed to playing to their strengths and ensuring a seamless transition in their game plan, emphasizing the collective effort and versatility within the squad. With the spotlight now on Steward to fill Furbank's shoes, England's approach remains focused on maintaining their performance standards and executing their game plan effectively. As they gear up for the crucial Test against New Zealand, the team's resilience and depth in talent will be tested, with Steward poised to make his mark in a high-stakes encounter at Eden Park.