England head into the 2026 Six Nations with a palpable sense of optimism. Under Steve Borthwick, they are on an 11-match winning streak and eyeing a first title since 2020. The mood is bullish, reflected in Borthwick's uncharacteristic call for fans to flock to Paris for the final weekend. Starting at home against a desperate Wales side provides an ideal launchpad for a campaign that could restore England to the top of European rugby.
Borthwick's squad boasts considerable depth, able to cope with front-row injuries and the six-week tournament's attrition. George Furbank's return adds another dimension to the backline, but concerns linger over the form of players like Ben Earl, who may feel the effects of last summer's Lions tour. Borthwick must be ruthless if early performances do not improve.
England face contrasting fortunes among their rivals. France, the defending champions, have undergone a radical overhaul, dispensing with over 200 caps by omitting Damian Penaud, Grégory Alldritt and Gaël Fickou. Ireland are beset by injuries to key players like Hugo Keenan and disciplinary issues surrounding Bundee Aki, leaving them with an ageing squad and a lingering fly-half question.
Henry Arundell is the player to watch for England. The Bath flyer brings express pace and a much-improved aerial game, and Borthwick's faith in omitting the likes of Tommy Freeman underlines his potential. The key match will be the Calcutta Cup against Scotland at Murrayfield, where England have won only once since Eddie Jones's first game in charge. If they can navigate that, the path to glory beckons.
