I am really surprised that Dombrandt wasn't included. The opening game against France is a potential banana skin, and England may need a player who can change the momentum. Absent Billy, they also need a No 8.

But then, it's Eddie, so a) left field is the order of the day, and comes off more often than it doesn't and b) he will almost certainly break one of his flankers in training camp, which means c) he hasn't selected Alex because he wants to keep him fit for the first game.#

That's my story, and I'm sticking to it.

I think you're right BQ, his ground skills will develop further the more he plays.

What Dommers does give you is a threat that you have to defend. We often see the oppo put 2 men to watch him at the breakdown or if he's in the loose and with his offload game causes defences problems. What we lacked in the game we shall not mention was a line break or three that would have turned the Boks around!

Uninspiring squad with EJ failing to address any of the issues that we know are present in the England squad:

No proper fullback in the squad
No blooding of new scrum halves (there is no point in having Heinz on the bench in place of testing out alternatives who will be available through the whole world cup cycle)
No number 8 squad

To a great extent EJ might be using the 6 Nations as building blocks towards the next RWC. I am sure he will still want to win the 6N but it is not his main ultimate focus. This would explain his odd selection strategy to some degree as he is playing Chess several moves ahead.

Seen it mentioned that EJ is not convinced Dombrandt is fit enough for Test rugby just yet (no idea if true)

I've heard this as well, but I think it's common knowledge how gruelling EJ's fitness can be so I lean more towards him being brought up during the competition

Feels like he is still trying to win the comp - and just blood a few new guys.

EJ in 6 Nations "Want-to-Win shocker!!

Cant fault that really, can you?