Henry Pollock is set to make his debut start for England on Saturday after being included in the starting XV for the Six Nations clash against Ireland, marking one of three alterations from the team that faced Scotland.
Steve Borthwick has made significant changes following the Calcutta Cup loss, with Pollock, Tom Curry, and Ollie Lawrence all included in the starting lineup.
Lawrence’s placement at outside centre results in Tommy Freeman moving to the wing. In addition to these three changes, captain Maro Itoje will earn his 100th cap on Saturday as England aims to return to form at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham.
The adjustments see Pollock positioned at No.8, while Ben Earl shifts to openside. Tom Curry will play blindside, with Guy Pepper and Sam Underhill now on the bench.
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Lawrence’s addition means that winger Tom Roebuck is excluded from the matchday squad. Henry Arundell remains on the wing after receiving a red card in England’s loss to Scotland, having avoided suspension at a hearing on Tuesday.
On the bench, Jack van Poortvliet takes the place of Ben Spencer, while Marcus Smith returns in place of Fin Smith.
“We anticipate a significant contest at Allianz Stadium and are looking forward to it,” Borthwick stated. “We understand the challenge posed by Ireland and have chosen a team that we believe possesses the right balance to face it.”
For Itoje, he becomes only the ninth male England player to achieve the milestone of 100 caps, joining Ben Youngs (127), Dan Cole (118), Jason Leonard (114), Owen Farrell (112), George Ford (107), Jamie George (107), Courtney Lawes (105), and Danny Care (101).
“Reaching 100 caps for England is an extraordinary accomplishment and reflects Maro’s consistency and professionalism over the years,” Borthwick remarked.
“He leads by example every day, sets the benchmark for others, and is deeply committed to representing his country. We are all immensely proud of his achievements, and I know it will be a memorable day for him and his family.”
Starting XV:
1. Ellis Genge, 2. Luke Cowan-Dickie, 3. Joe Heyes, 4. Maro Itoje (captain), 5. Ollie Chessum, 6. Tom Curry, 7. Ben Earl, 8. Henry Pollock, 9. Alex Mitchell, 10. George Ford, 11. Henry Arundell, 12. Fraser Dingwall, 13. Ollie Lawrence, 14. Tommy Freeman, 15. Freddie Steward.
Replacements: 16. Jamie George, 17. Bevan Rodd, 18. Trevor Davison, 19. Alex Coles, 20. Guy Pepper, 21. Sam Underhill, 22. Jack van Poortvliet, 23. Marcus Smith.
