Borthwick's wholesale changes justified as England look a different beast

Eyebrows were raised when Steve Borthwick named his team selection for Saturday's visit of Cardiff given there were nine alterations to the 23-man squad but boy did they pay off.

Borthwick has had his critics, some harsh, but given England's torrid Six Nations record in recent years combined with poor performances in the autumn, they've largely been justified.

There's a sense of optimism for England now though having concluded the tournament with four successive wins and having only missed out on the title via points difference - a far cry from their previous four showings where the Red Rose never had a sniff of becoming Europe's top team.

It's of course important to not get too carried away as there are still glaring issues, most notably England's ugly penalty count, and what to do with their hugely marketable Marcus Smith, who isn't finding life at 15 too rosy at the minute, as well as a severe lack of depth at both lock and inside centre.

However, England came into this Six Nations with a creaking scrum which looks to be fixed under Tom Harrison. Ellis Genge and Will Stuart looked set to be replaced by any number of the young and hungry front row's that have progressed through the pathways, but the duo have dovetailed brilliantly getting the better of some formidable packs including tournament winners France.

In the opening two rounds, England's attack looked stifled. Fans were watching Ireland, France, Italy and Scotland with envy as their counterparts showcased flair at a time when box kicks seemed to be the never-ending theme at HQ. It's taken a lot longer than it should have but England's attack is beginning to purr. There's a Northampton feel to the backline supplemented by some barnstorming carries from the likes of Ben Earl, Tom Willis and Chandler Cunningham-South.

Cunningham-South put in his best display yet at test level, operating as a lock when he's largely deployed in the back row. The Curry twins are a formidable partnership and a breakdown nightmare for opposition packs to deal with, justifying Willis' relegation to the replacements, while everything Tommy Freeman touches turns to gold at the minute, irrespective of the number on his back.

Test match rugby is becoming more about power than ever, with France and South Africa using 7-1 bench splits successfully. If anyone looks likely to compete with their relentless physicality, you'd have to say England would be your best bet considering they still have their primary enforcer George Martin to return from injury.

England fans have endured a lot these past few years but it appears they may finally be turning back into a dangerous beast.