Overview
- Australia opened the series with a 26-6 win at Wembley, highlighted by debutant Reece Walsh scoring two tries and controlling the second half.
- Yeo sustained a category-one head knock in an early collision with Dom Young and will miss the second Test under the 11-day return-to-play rule.
- Coach Kevin Walters is expected to make minimal changes, with Lindsay Smith likely to join the 17 and Lindsay Collins a possible starter as Patrick Carrigan shifts to lock.
- Players and pundits criticised the slow ruck in the opener under referee Liam Moore, with Grant Atkins set to officiate in Liverpool and an uptick in ruck speed anticipated.
- England weigh adjustments after struggling in attack, with Jack Welsby under pressure and AJ Brimson considered for inclusion alongside potential changes at hooker and prop.