England vs Japan suggested bets and tips: Steve Borthwick's side wary of Japan threat

Japan haven't had the platform to build on their 2019 success between tournaments but will be targeting another big upset and deep run in France. 

Here we take a look at the match and suggest a few bets alongside our break down of how things might proceed.

England vs Japan: Tips and suggested bets 

Japan are the underdogs, but that makes them an attractive prospect for the unconditional win, in a rare occurrence at the Rugby World Cup so far.

George Ford's boot has already proven dangerous and he is the man who appears to be the most likely to get on the board first and to end up with the highest points tally. 

England might give Marcus Smith a go at flyhalf instead but after Ford did so well to control the game against Argentina they would be foolhardy to risk the disruption. 

In defence, England will need to be careful not to allow Kataro Matsushima to run at them with the fleet-footed wing being a dangerous prospect for all opponents at the Rugby World Cup.

Matsushima is also a solid bet to be the first player from either side to touch down although England's Joe Marchant's aerial ability means he has to be considered for a punt as well. 

Japan didn't strengthen their position with the bookies with an indifferent first outing but they will be motivated to do well in this game and are no strangers to pulling of giant upsets. 

Just four years ago, Japan beat both Scotland and Ireland in their home tournament and they have high hopes of getting out of their group but to do so will need to beat England or Argentina. 

Rikiya Matsuda has been solid off the tee and is a name worth backing in any markets for goal-kicking and overall points.

Team news

Billy Vunipola has completed his suspension and will return to the team, though Borthwick has decided to give Lewis Ludlam the start at number eight, meaning Vunipola will be on the bench.

Kyle Sinckler and Joe Marler replace Dan Cole and Ellis Genge in the front row, while Owen Farrell will be eligible to return to action in the last two group-stage matches.

Japan, on the other hand, are expected to go with Shota Horie in place of Atsushi Sakate at hooker. Pieter Labuschagne will replace Kanji Shimokawa in the second row.

Kazuki Himeno is fit to play and will resume captaincy duties, meaning Jack Cornelsen will move into the lock role.