The backline is unchanged from the win in Tokyo, with Marcus Smith retaining the fly-half shirt after starring against the Blossoms, and Northampton’s Premiership title winner Fin Smith among the replacements.
“We know the quality Marcus has as a player, everyone sees it,” Borthwick added.
“He is now an experienced international 10. He will continue to bring his point of difference onto the pitch.
“And having spent more time training with Alex Mitchell, more time training with Mitch and Ollie Lawrence and Henry Slade, I’ve seen that whole partnership develop.
“That cohesion and consistency of players playing together is something we have to try and maximise.
“Having Marcus to start the game, and a player of the calibre of Fin Smith to finish the game, that is an enviable position.”
Along with the uncapped Baxter and Sleightholme, lock Alex Coles and Ben Spencer also come into the matchday squad.
Northampton wing Sleightholme, son of former England wing Jon, enjoyed a standout season for the Saints, topping the league’s try-scoring charts including a solo effort in the final against Bath.
“He is a player who has benefited from a bit more time in camp. He’s looked really good in training, and he clearly has a point of difference in that he understands how to get to the try line,” Borthwick added.
