England's recent match against Wales saw Henry Arundell take center stage with an unforgettable first-half hat-trick. Though his scoring prowess was undeniable, it was the nuances of his play that truly impressed coach Steve Borthwick. This performance wasn't just about the tries. It was a showcase of Arundell's growth and adaptability on the field.

Historically, Arundell's defensive skills have faced scrutiny. However, against Wales, he displayed a newfound resilience and tactical awareness. His imposing physical presence, standing at 6ft and weighing 15st 2lb, was backed up by clever play and solid positioning. He's not just a fast runner; he's a formidable defender who knows how to hold his ground.

This transformation is attributed to his time at Bath, where under the guidance of Johann van Graan and defence coach JP Ferreira, Arundell's defensive game has significantly evolved. Late in the match, with victory in sight, Arundell demonstrated his eagerness to contribute beyond his usual strategic role. He moved in from the wing, actively seeking opportunities to leverage his speed and create openings.

His willingness to get involved and adapt marks a shift in his approach, showing he's not content to simply wait for the ball but wants to be in the thick of the action. This proactive mindset is a valuable asset for England as they look towards their upcoming challenges.

As England and France both delivered commanding performances in their opening fixtures, anticipation is building for their high-stakes encounter in Paris on 14 March. Yet, it's not as straightforward as predicting a Grand Slam showdown based on these early victories. Both teams will encounter tougher challenges in the upcoming rounds, where resilience and adaptability will be tested, especially in less favorable conditions and away matches.

Borthwick is likely not looking too far ahead. Instead, he might be reflecting on a lesson from France's playbook: creating a competitive environment within the squad. French coach Fabien Galthie's decision to refresh his lineup, leaving out established stars like Damian Penaud and Gael Fickou, invigorated the team to excel against Ireland. This bold strategy underlines the importance of internal competition in maintaining high performance.

With an increasingly deep roster, Borthwick now has the flexibility to take similar calculated risks in team selections. This strategic depth is a powerful tool, positioning England to potentially match France's innovative approach, fostering a dynamic and competitive spirit within the team.