Donal Lenihan: Three seismic pool matches on a blockbuster opening weekend

It says something about the bizarre nature of this World Cup draw that four key pool games take place on the opening weekend

DISARRAY: England’s Owen Farrell and Billy Vunipola are both suspended for England's opening game against Argentina. Pic: David Davies/PA Wire

England v Argentina: Marseille, Saturday September 9

For Steve Borthwick‘s beleaguered England squad, it’s a case of from the frying pan to the fire in relation to their opening Pool D assignment in Marseille. Borthwick has had a torrid time since assuming the reins from the rumbustious Eddie Jones and can barely catch a break at the moment.