When Henry Pollock decided to bleach his hair bright blonde, it wasn’t just a fashion statement — it was a call for attention.
His return to England’s squad with a little rat-tail hairstyle had gone largely unnoticed during their tour in Australia, and the 20-year-old’s brash personality demanded he make a bigger impression.
And impression he did. Coming off the bench in England’s autumn Test against Australia at Twickenham, Pollock lit up the pitch, his peroxide locks almost symbolizing the explosive energy he brought to the game.
England’s Bench Becomes a Powerhouse
Head coach Steve Borthwick has been meticulously plotting how to close out tight matches, and his six Lions replacements didn’t disappoint.
Around the 50-minute mark, with the game grinding into the slower tempo of a Test match, England’s bench looked like a pack of caged animals ready to pounce.
Ellis Genge was snarling, Luke Cowan-Dickie appeared ready for battle, and Pollock bounced around like he’d downed half a dozen energy drinks.
Together, they became England’s own hype squad, imposing their power and intensity to choke the Wallabies’ momentum.
Dominance Through Forwards and Set-Pieces
England’s physicality in the forwards shone, with Tom Curry throwing himself into every collision and Will Stuart dominating the set-piece.
The Wallabies, missing key players like Will Skelton and Len Ikitau, struggled to cope with England’s strength.
By the end of the match, it was clear England’s depth in back-five forwards is world-class — a reassuring sign ahead of the Rugby World Cup as they aim to secure top seeding.
Questions Still Loom Over England’s Midfield
While the forwards dominated, England’s midfield exposed some lingering issues. The team still lacks a truly world-class centre partnership.
Fraser Dingwall failed to capitalize on key opportunities, and Tommy Freeman will need to prove himself if he is to become a dominant No13 in time for the 2027 World Cup.
They managed to break the line but couldn’t always finish the chances, leaving Ollie Lawrence fans hoping for a recall soon.
Tackling Joseph Suaalii and Australian Tactics
It’s been a year since Joseph Suaalii made his Twickenham debut, and the Wallabies star has grown into a formidable threat.
Leaping high on kick-offs, Suaalii tests every English defender with his aerial ability.
Borthwick had highlighted Australia’s repeated illegal breakdown entries during the week, and his warnings paid off.
Within five minutes, the Wallabies were penalized twice for exactly the offenses Borthwick flagged, allowing England easy access into their 22.
Despite early pressure, England’s attack took time to find rhythm.
Joe Heyes was held up over the line, and Tommy Freeman struggled in the No13 role, but George Ford eventually kicked the opening points to get England on the board.
Ben Earl Shines as a Potential Centre
England’s kicking game soon created opportunities, with Alex Mitchell launching a box kick that Roebuck claimed, setting up a quick transfer to Sam Underhill and then Ben Earl.
Earl, touted as a potential Test centre, sprinted clear to score, showcasing the speed and agility of a back despite playing No8.
If Borthwick is serious about moving Earl into the midfield, next week’s Test against Fiji could provide the perfect trial.
Defensive Grit and Red-Hot Commitment
England’s goal-line defence was rock solid. Sam Underhill, as ever, gave his all, blood streaming down his face as the pack repelled Australia’s attacks.
The Wallabies only managed one long-range score when Harry Potter intercepted Dingwall’s pass and ran the length of the pitch.
Meanwhile, Marcus Smith’s absence from the squad did not go unnoticed by fans, with Whitton Road traders selling scarves in his honour.
Ford controlled the No10 duties, while Fin Smith stayed on the bench, reinforcing the question of whether Marcus might be needed for future matchday squads.
Pollock’s Explosive Contribution
Despite England’s backline struggles on a soggy night, the forwards did enough to secure a comfortable victory.
Pollock capped a sensational night with his third try in just two Tests, skillfully gathering Roebuck’s tap-back and evading Andrew Kellaway’s tackle to score.
Mitchell also scored off a driving maul, with Cowan-Dickie adding another.
Pollock’s night wasn’t without controversy, though — he received a yellow card late in the game after getting under Australia’s skin, ensuring his Twickenham debut was anything but quiet.
England Launch Their Autumn Series with Confidence
The win sent a clear message: England have the depth, power, and tactical nous to dominate in the autumn series.
Yet, questions about midfield cohesion and attacking flair remain, particularly as they prepare to face the All Blacks and refine their strategy for the World Cup.
Steve Borthwick’s squad showed glimpses of brilliance, but the real test will come as they look to sharpen their attack while maintaining the forward dominance that carried them through a night of grey skies and bright hair.