Henry Pollock secures his first start for England as coach Steve Borthwick implements three changes ahead of Ireland’s Six Nations visit to Twickenham on Saturday.

England’s 12-game winning streak ended abruptly with a 31-20 loss to Scotland in Edinburgh last weekend. Sam Underhill, Guy Pepper, and Tom Roebuck drop out, prompting several positional shifts.

Back Row Reshuffle

Pollock slots in at number eight in a revamped back row. Ben Earl shifts to openside flanker, while Tom Curry enters at blindside. All seven of Pollock’s prior caps came off the bench, but he now gets a full opportunity following the Murrayfield setback.

Other Key Adjustments

Tommy Freeman moves to the wing, replacing Roebuck. Ollie Lawrence earns his first start of the tournament at outside centre (number 13). Henry Arundell holds his left-wing position despite receiving two yellow cards—resulting in a 20-minute red—against Scotland.

Itoje’s Milestone

Captain Maro Itoje reaches his 100th cap, joining an elite group as only the ninth England player to achieve this feat. Borthwick praised the lock, stating, “To reach 100 caps for England is a remarkable achievement and speaks volumes about Maro’s consistency and professionalism over many years. We’re all incredibly proud of what he has achieved, and I know it will be a special day for him and his family.”

Bench Changes

Borthwick refreshes the backline reserves, with Jack van Poortvliet and Marcus Smith replacing Ben Spencer and Fin Smith.

England Starting XV (15-1)

Freddie Steward; Tommy Freeman, Ollie Lawrence, Fraser Dingwall, Henry Arundell; George Ford, Alex Mitchell; Henry Pollock, Ben Earl, Tom Curry; Ollie Chessum, Maro Itoje (capt); Joe Heyes, Le Cowan-Dickie, Ellis Genge

Replacements: Jamie George, Bevan Rodd, Trevor Davison, Alex Coles, Guy Pepper, Sam Underhill, Jack van Poortvliet, Marcus Smith

Coach: Steve Borthwick