Eddie Jones trying out some new combinations and giving prospects a chance to shine.
Jones has named a much-changed England team to the one that lost the Six Nations opener to Scotland, but it is still full of class acts and players with points to prove.
The England head coach has made eight changes to his starting XV, with two in his front row, and tweaks to his second- and back-row, with Harry Randall, Jack Nowell and Joe Marchant coming into the backline.
Elliot Daly, Kyle Sinckler, Ben Youngs and Sam Simmonds all drop to the bench after starting in the 20-17 loss to Scotland. The same goes for hooker Luke Cowan-Dickie, who was yellow-carded in that game and conceded a penalty same with the same, rash play.
Maro Itoje switches to England back row
Harry Randall and Marcus Smith make up a youthful half-back combination, with Henry Slade being retained at inside centre for his experience and play-making capabilities.
Maro Itoje switches from second row to blindside, with Bath's Charlie Ewels drafted in to the second row. Captain Tom Curry starts at openside again, while Alex Dombrandt gets the No.8 shirt from Simmonds.
Joe Marchant gets his chance in the 13 jersey, again, while Saracens' Elliot Daly drops to the bench as backline cover.
Ellis Genge is the only front row member to retain his starting spot for Sunday's game against Italy, in Rome. The Italians pushed France close in their opener before falling off with their challenge in the closing stages.
Andy Farrell has named his troops Andy Farrell has named his XV and replacements for Ireland’s round four Six Nations clash against Wales at the Aviva Stadium on Friday night (8.10pm kick off). Ireland, who recovered from their thumping opening-night defeat in France, edged past Italy in round two and then put in a fantastic […]
Worrying revelations. A report from the Telegraph has uncovered some shocking revelations in regards to South African rugby and its drug testing. As stated in their article, the country is the worst offender in terms of doping violations, with 20% of convicted rugby dopers from 2019 to 2023 coming from South Africa. However, in the […]
Not ideal. The Six Nations trophy has been destroyed after the vehicle it was travelling in in Ireland caught fire. Irreparable damage has been done to it according to tournament officials, and a replica version will now be given to the winners of this year’s tournament. Materials salvaged from the wrecked trophy will be used […]
