Both Sam Simmonds and Billy Vunipola to line up for England against New Zealand

Owen Farrell will become the third England player to reach 100 caps when he leads the team out in the penultimate Test of the autumn.

CAVALRY: Sam Simmonds (left) and Billy Vunipola will both start for England (Andrew Matthews/David Davies/PA)

England have taken the unexpected step of naming two number eights in their back row for Saturday’s headline clash of the autumn against New Zealand.

Sam Simmonds and Billy Vunipola will offer Eddie Jones’ men explosive ball carrying options in a bold selection that was first seen when they were paired together at the end of last Saturday’s thumping victory over Japan.