Leakes England team to play Ireland: Marcus Smith starts No.10
01/27/2025 09:22 AM
Marcus Smith is set to pull the strings at fly-half for England’s Six Nations opener against Ireland in Dublin this Saturday, according to the Mail Online.
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After much speculation, Steve Borthwick looks ready to place his faith in the 24-year-old for the championship’s curtain-raiser.
Freddie Steward Back in Business
With the aerial bombardment from Ireland all but guaranteed, Freddie Steward is reportedly returning to the starting XV at full-back. The in-form Leicester star, known for his safe hands under the high ball, looks like the perfect counter to Ireland's kicking game.
Alex Mitchell: Back Just in Time
There's good news at scrum-half, with Alex Mitchell declared fit to face Ireland after recovering from a knee problem. The 27-year-old returned to full training on Monday, providing a timely boost for Borthwick's plans. Mitchell, who missed the Autumn Nations Series due to a neck injury, was one of England's standout performers earlier in 2024.
Henry Pollock Makes Way
Mitchell's return spells bad news for Northampton flanker Henry Pollock, who has been released from the senior squad to rejoin the England Under-20s.
A Test of Depth
England's squad has taken its fair share of hits leading up to Saturday's clash. Jamie George, Alex Coles, Alex Dombrandt, and Jack van Poortvliet have all been ruled out, adding to Borthwick's selection headaches.
Breaking the Dublin Curse
England haven't tasted victory in Dublin since 2019, but Mitchell's availability could be key to reversing their fortunes against the reigning Six Nations champions. The Aviva Stadium awaits for what promises to be a seismic clash.
EXPECTED ENGLAND TEAM TO PLAY IRELAND:
Freddie Steward (Leicester)
Tom Roebuck (Sale)
Ollie Lawrence (Bath)
Henry Slade (Exeter)
Tommy Freeman (Northampton)
Marcus Smith (Harlequins)
Alex Mitchell (Northampton)
Ellis Genge (Bristol)
Luke Cowan-Dickie (Sale)
Will Stuart (Bath)
Maro Itoje (Saracens, captain)
George Martin (Leicester)
Ollie Chessum (Leicester)
Ben Earl (Saracens)
Tom Curry (Sale)
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