In today’s early contest, Louis Lynagh has helped to reduce the scoring difference to 21-22, with Scotland currently holding the lead over Italy. The opportunity to secure an Italian advantage was lost when Garbisi failed to make a conversion.
The English pack appears to be filled with contenders for the lineout, including Itoje. The aim is likely to capitalise on the five scrum penalties conceded by the Irish team two years ago, by targeting Ireland’s set pieces. Jack Crowley’s judgement under the pressure exerted by Felix Jones’s blitz defence is expected to face its greatest challenge yet, according to Gerry Thornley.
Looking closely at England’s potential threats, our main preview of the day’s events at Twickenham is by Gerry Thornley. If England can secure a victory with a bonus point, they will claim the title of the Six Nations competition.
Ireland, having defeated Italy, have made a single change to their team. Hugo Keenan, now fit, will start as fullback, replacing Ciarán Frawley who will instead feature on the bench. Also among the substitutes, Finlay Bealham has taken the tighthead position from Oli Jager, while Frawley is the only outside back due to a 6-2 division. Despite regaining fitness, Garry Ringrose will not be playing the upcoming match, nor will Stuart McCloskey, despite his recent impressive performances as a substitute.
Announcements for the fixtures of next year’s tournament are out. The two teams competing today will face each other again in Dublin for the first round of the 2025 competition. Ireland’s journey will conclude in Rome during the St Patrick’s weekend, which could potentially mark a celebratory culmination if Ireland finds themselves vying for the title yet again.
Turning our attention to the team updates, we start with England. A series of adjustments have been made to their team post their defeat against Scotland. Immanuel Feyi-Waboso will replace Elliot Daly on the wing, complementing the blitz defence style of Felix Jones. Feyi-Waboso’s swift pace and familiarity with the system due to its use by his club, Exeter, make him a suitable choice.
Alex Mitchell is once again in top form, assuming his position as scrumhalf, while George Martin considerably strengthens the secondrow with his robust physicality. Blindside flanker will now be graced by Ollie Chessum, necessitating the removal of Ethan Roots from the team entirely.
We’ve rounded the final corner, with one more downtime week in the Six Nations now behind us. The next two weekends will see Ireland resuming their plays, with eyes set on the Grand Slam.
A pleasant afternoon to everyone. You’ve tuned in for the real-time reportage of the much-anticipated match between Ireland and England at Twickenham. My name is Nathan Johns, and I’m here to provide you with detailed descriptions of the unfolding gameplay. With today’s game, Ireland could clinch the championship title if they score a bonus point win, setting up a duel next weekend against Scotland in Dublin for both the Triple Crown and Grand Slam.
If England claims victory today, the tournament’s momentum could shift dramatically, ensuring that the teams of Steve Borthwick and Scotland remain invested until the competition’s finale.
Despite Ireland being the odds-on favourites, a face-off with England at Twickenham is always a challenge not to be taken lightly. The starting whistle is set for 4.45pm, meanwhile, feel free to connect with me on Twitter (@nathanrjohns) to discuss your views as we anticipate the unfolding action.