England head coach Steve Borthwick has made a bold move by introducing nine changes to his starting lineup ahead of Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations match against Italy at Rome’s Stadio Olimpico. Among the new faces is Gloucester Rugby centre Seb Atkinson, who earns his Six Nations debut in the number 12 jersey, replacing Northampton’s Fraser Dingwell.
Atkinson, 23, has two England starts under his belt, both from last summer’s successful tour of Argentina. The refreshed lineup also includes Jamie George, Alex Coles, Guy Pepper, Ben Spencer, Fin Smith, Cadan Murley, Tom Roebuck, and Elliot Daly. Additionally, Tommy Freeman shifts from wing to centre, adding further versatility to the team.
A notable milestone this weekend is number eight Ben Earl’s 50th cap for England. Since debuting against Scotland in 2020, Earl has established himself as a key leader within the squad. Borthwick praised Earl’s professionalism and consistent performances, stating, “His energy and drive set standards that inspire the entire group. Reaching this milestone is a testament to his dedication and impact.”
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Borthwick emphasized the challenge ahead: “Playing Italy in Rome will be a tough test, but we’ve selected a squad ready to meet that challenge and deliver the performance we’re striving for.”
England Starting XV vs Italy:
15. Elliot Daly (Saracens, 74 caps)
14. Tom Roebuck (Sale Sharks, 10 caps)
13. Tommy Freeman (Northampton Saints, 25 caps)
12. Seb Atkinson (Gloucester Rugby, 2 caps)
11. Cadan Murley (Harlequins, 4 caps)
10. Fin Smith (Northampton Saints, 14 caps)
9. Ben Spencer (Bath Rugby, 16 caps)
- Ellis Genge (Bristol Bears, 78 caps) – Vice-Captain
- Jamie George (Saracens, 108 caps) – Vice-Captain
- Joe Heyes (Leicester Tigers, 20 caps)
- Maro Itoje (Saracens, 100 caps) – Captain
- Alex Coles (Northampton Saints, 17 caps)
- Guy Pepper (Bath Rugby, 10 caps)
- Tom Curry (Sale Sharks, 68 caps)
- Ben Earl (Saracens, 49 caps)
Replacements:
16. Luke Cowan-Dickie (Sale Sharks, 56 caps)
17. Bevan Rodd (Sale Sharks, 13 caps)
18. Trevor Davison (Northampton Saints, 6 caps)
19. Ollie Chessum (Leicester Tigers, 33 caps)
20. Sam Underhill (Bath Rugby, 48 caps)
21. Henry Pollock (Northampton Saints, 8 caps)
22. Jack van Poortvliet (Leicester Tigers, 22 caps)
23. Marcus Smith (Harlequins, 48 caps)