Immanuel Feyi-Waboso is set to make his starting debut for England in their upcoming match against Ireland on Saturday, signifying a swift ascent since his time at Taunton Titans just under a year ago. Additionally, coach Steve Borthwick is allegedly planning to bring back scrumhalf Alex Mitchell and George Martin for the challenging Six Nations match on Saturday, while it is speculated that Marcus Smith will reappear as a substitute, with George Ford retaining his position as outhalf.
Feyi-Waboso, aged 21, has caught attention in his two substitute appearances thus far and is projected to start as the left winger for the first time. Unless there are last-minute changes, it seems likely that Elliot Daly would not feature in the team while Feyi-Waboso, who was previously in the middle of a dispute between England and Wales before the Six Nations, is tipped to be selected.
As a winger for Exeter, Feyi-Waboso missed the previous week’s training camp in York to attend a medical exam, although his startling performance in Scotland’s win was recognised by Gregor Townsend. Feyi-Waboso arrived at Exeter after the Wasps went bankrupt and only started playing regularly for the Chiefs at the season’s commencement, following a loan spell at Taunton.
On Thursday, Borthwick plans to unveil his team and the potential return of Mitchell is promising news. Despite an infected leg wound and a subsequent knee injury which sparked fears he could be out of the tournament, the Northampton scrumhalf is prepared to rejoin the team and continue his halfback partnership with Ford.
Finally, Smith, who has sat out all of England’s three matches so far due to a calf injury incurred shortly before their tournament opener against Italy, is reportedly fit again. Borthwick would likely have considered featuring him, however, Smith hasn’t played since Harlequins’ successful Champions Cup match against Ulster on January 20. Back-up outhalf, Fin Smith, hasn’t been able to take part in the training since last week.
Martin’s anticipated selection is likely to bolster England’s team following his standout performance in the game against Scotland, barring one mishandled kick-off. His considerable strength will undeniably enhance the forward pack. Martin is poised for his first start in an England jersey since his remarkable display in the World Cup semi-finals, where they succumbed to South Africa. It is envisaged that Ethan Roots will step aside to accommodate Martin’s inclusion.
– Guardian