"The sense of optimism is palpable in Steve Borthwick's camp. On a run of 11 straight victories and with more than enough strength in depth to cope with front-row injuries and the attritional nature of a six-week tournament, England have high hopes of a first title since 2020. Starting at home against a desperate Wales side is an ideal way to kick off and the bullishness is reflected in Borthwick's call to arms to supporters to flood to Paris on the final weekend."
"If there is one concern about England it is that a few players - Ben Earl being the most obvious one - are out of form and surely feeling some effects of last summer's British & Irish Lions tour. Borthwick must be ruthless if there is no upturn in the opening rounds. Player to watch: Henry Arundell. The Bath flyer has express pace and has improved his aerial game no end."
England head into the Six Nations on an 11-match winning run, with depth to handle front-row injuries and the attritional tournament schedule. Steve Borthwick's side target a first title since 2020 and begin at home against Wales. George Furbank's return strengthens the back division, while the squad otherwise appears settled. Concerns include a few players, notably Ben Earl, being out of form and affected by last summer's British & Irish Lions tour, prompting pressure for selection changes. Henry Arundell emerges as a key attacking threat with pace and improved aerial skills. The Calcutta Cup match against Scotland represents a pivotal fixture.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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