England coach Eddie Jones has reverted to his World Cup back row of Tom Curry, Sam Underhill and Billy Vunipola for Saturday’s Nations Cup match against Ireland at Twickenham.
The powerful trio are reunited for the toughest game England have faced since the restart after easy wins over Italy and Georgia. Maro Itoje moves from No. 6 to lock, joining Joe Launchbury. Jonathan Joseph has recovered from a back problem to start on the wing, while fly-half George Ford is on the bench after overcoming a foot injury.
“We have the highest respect for the Ireland and their coach Andy Farrell,” Jones said.
“They’ve had good preparation with two wins and a dominant display against Wales, and we will need to be at our best on Saturday.”
England team to face Ireland
Starting XV:
Elliot Daly, Jonathan Joseph, Ollie Lawrence, Henry Slade, Jonny May, Owen Farrell (captain), Ben Youngs, Mako Vunipola, Jamie George, Kyle Sinckler, Maro Itoje, Joe Launchbury, Tom Curry, Sam Underhill, Billy Vunipola
Replacements:
Tom Dunn, Ellis Genge, Will Stuart , Jonny Hill, Ben Earl, Dan Robson, George Ford, Max Malins