Former England wing Ugo Monye has called on Steve Borthwick to ensure Henry Arundell receives early ball in England's Six Nations opener against Wales. Writing in his column, Monye stressed the importance of exploiting Arundell's raw pace, power and explosive abilities, which he demonstrated in Bath's recent victory over Saracens.
Monye praised Arundell's aerial development, noting Borthwick would have been impressed by his competition with Saracens' Noah Caluori. With Wales expected to kick heavily to avoid Freddie Steward, Monye argued Arundell's improvement in that facet justifies his starting berth. 'Get him in the game early on,' Monye wrote.
England enter the tournament as genuine title favourites after 11 consecutive wins, but Monye warned against expecting a repeat of last year's 50-point victory over Wales. He noted England often struggle for fluency in tournament openers, despite the Professional Game Partnership easing squad assembly from 10 clubs.
The fixture list offers England a chance to build momentum, Monye said, before a crucial trip to Murrayfield. 'Win it, end their poor recent run in Edinburgh and England are perfectly set for a tilt at the title. Come unstuck again and this team remains a work in progress.'
Monye also backed the squad's strength in depth, highlighting the bench's potency with Maro Itoje among the replacements. He expects Henry Pollock to start later in the tournament, praising the young back-rower's energy despite limited caps.
