In a significant boost for English rugby, Elliot Daly has been recalled to the England squad, putting him in contention for a dramatic return to action against New Zealand this Saturday. The versatile back has been sidelined for the entire 2025/26 season so far after suffering a broken arm.
From Lions Tour Setback to All Blacks Opportunity
Daly's injury nightmare began during the British and Irish Lions tour of Australia this past summer, an unfortunate event that ruled him out of the subsequent successful Test series victory over the Wallabies. The setback meant he has not played a single minute for his club, Saracens, in the current campaign.
Despite this prolonged absence, England head coach Steve Borthwick is considering throwing Daly straight back into the fray for what is being described as an acid test against the southern hemisphere giants. His potential inclusion would be a major vote of confidence in the experienced player.
Bolstering England's Backline Options
Daly's return significantly strengthens Borthwick's resources at full-back. The national side is currently riding a wave of confidence, enjoying a nine-match winning streak following recent victories over Australia and Fiji.
The back-three selection has seen some movement, with Marcus Smith deputising at No. 15 against Fiji while Freddie Steward was injured. Steward has now returned to fitness and is available for the All Blacks clash. The squad also features wings Tom Roebuck, who missed the Fiji match, and Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, the latter having been left battered and bruised from the 38-18 win over the Fijians.
Commenting on Daly's situation, Borthwick provided an update, stating, 'Hopefully, Elliot will be available for selection this week. He's got a meeting with a specialist over the weekend.' This final assessment will determine if the Saracens star can make his long-awaited comeback on one of rugby's biggest stages.
