Preview: England v Japan talking points

England and Japan meet in a Test match for only the second time when they clash in Saturday's Quilter International at Twickenham. Here, we examine five talking points heading into the penultimate fixture of the autumn.

Can lightning strike twice?

As the mastermind of the greatest upset in rugby history, Eddie Jones knows the threat posed by an underdog after Japan stunned South Africa 34-32 in Brighton at the 2015 World Cup, a result that propelled him into the England job. The Brave Blossoms are as long as 50-1 to cause similar shock waves in only the second Test between the rivals.

All change

Jones has completely overhauled his team, making 11 changes to the side that fell to a controversial 16-15 defeat by New Zealand. The selection serves as a dry run for the group stage of next year's World Cup when England face a four-day turnaround between fixtures against Tonga and the USA, the proximity of the games demanding the starting XV is freshened up.

Hey Joe

Among the 11 new faces is Joe Cokanasiga, the giant Bath wing who will be making his debut. Still only 21, the 6'4 and 18 stones powerhouse has been a destructive force at the Recreation Ground this season and it is hoped he can provide the type of line-busting threat out wide that England have lacked since the retirement of Ben Cohen. If he succeeds, a World Cup place beckons.

Ruthlessness required

Any doubt over Jones' future that gathered after an alarming first six months of the year has been dispelled by a narrow win over South Africa and fine display against New Zealand. Now the challenge facing England is to continue building towards the World Cup by showing the type of ruthless streak against Japan that is the All Blacks' trademark.

Brave Blossoms

Jones has in-depth knowledge of Japan from his time at the helm, but is also aware of the way they have evolved since his departure. It was the canny Australian who changed the nation's rugby mindset, instilling the belief they should aim to win rather than be satisfied by a committed defeat. They look to kick whenever play is inside their own half and then attack with tempo when inside enemy territory.

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