Daly's Aerial Prowess Key for England's Argentina Test
England's veteran utility back, Elliot Daly, has returned to full training and is poised to make his competitive comeback this Sunday in the Autumn Nations Series match against Argentina. This marks his first appearance since suffering a fractured left arm during the British & Irish Lions tour against the Queensland Reds, an injury that saw him miss the first Lions Test.
From Red Card to Key Man: Daly's Full Circle Moment
Daly's history with the Pumas adds a compelling narrative to his return. His first Test against Argentina nine years ago in November 2016 lasted a mere five minutes, ending with a red card for a dangerous tackle. Now, with 73 caps to his name, the 33-year-old Saracens player is viewed as a crucial weapon, specifically for his expertise under the high ball.
The game has transformed significantly since that distant sending-off. A major factor is the recent law crackdown which prohibits "escorts" for players catching the ball, granting chasers "free access." This shift has turned aerial contests into a 50-50 battle, a change Daly acknowledges. "It's changed the game," he confirmed. "It does allow for more unstructured turnovers from which to attack."
Exploiting the New Laws and Weather Conditions
With rain forecast for the weekend, England's fly-half George Ford is expected to employ a tactical kicking game. Daly's skills are perfectly suited for this approach under the revised laws. He highlighted how the inability for defenders to block creates opportunities to either catch the ball or tap it back to teammates, citing recent examples from player Tom Roebuck that led to tries.
Players are now highly aware of the need to compete legally. Daly emphasised the squad's focus on discipline, stating, "You know where the line is. It's about being as squeaky clean as possible... we keep 15 men on the field." He will wear a protective foam guard on his previously injured arm.
Beyond tactics, Daly spoke positively about the improved fitness levels within the England camp under conditioners Phil Morrow and Dan Tobin. Head coach Steve Borthwick has expressed his delight with the squad's physical state, and Daly, feeling "brilliant," even voiced his ambition to continue through to the next World Cup, defying any concerns about his age.
In related news, South Africa's Lood de Jager has lost his appeal against the red card received against France and will miss the remainder of the Autumn Nations Series.
