England Turn to Henry Pollock in Bid to Banish Murrayfield Blues
Steve Borthwick's response to a stinging defeat in Scotland is to hand a first start to English rugby's young tyro, Henry Pollock, as England prepare to host Ireland in a crucial Six Nations clash. A week can be a long time in the Six Nations, and after contemplating title showdowns in Paris, England now face a must-win game to remain in contention. A swift riposte to the 31-20 loss in Edinburgh is urgently required, and Borthwick's team selection reflects a significant gear change.
Borthwick Backs Pollock to Deliver Euphoria
Pollock's promotion to the starting lineup, after seven caps off the bench, aims to re-energise the squad following the Murrayfield meltdown. This move coincides with the starting return of Tom Curry and Ollie Lawrence, Tommy Freeman's shift back to the wing, and Marcus Smith's bench resurrection. Borthwick has expressed confidence in Pollock, describing him as a "superstar" capable of bringing joy to the team.
There could easily have been further changes, as Borthwick's first instinct is to give players the benefit of the doubt, but he hesitated after last Saturday's experience. He stated, "There are players in the team this week who are playing because I'm backing them to put in a performance that they'll want to put in after last week," hinting at the pressure on the squad. Several players not selected are reportedly very disappointed, and could come into the frame if there is no instant reaction to the defeat.
Pollock's Unique Energy and Impact
If you want your side to rebound spectacularly, who better to whistle up than the ball of energy that is Pollock, described as the irrepressible Tigger to Borthwick's less excitable Eeyore. Their first meeting at Franklin's Gardens in Northampton saw Pollock bounce up to Borthwick with a casual "How are you, mate?"—a departure from the typical shyness of an 18-year-old meeting the England head coach. Borthwick was also struck by Pollock's match-clinching jackal off the bench in a Champions Cup game against Munster 13 months ago, and his spectacular try against Leinster in Dublin last May.
Now 21, Pollock has been picked to wear the No 8 jersey, with Ben Earl shifting to seven. This gives Pollock extra licence to roam, particularly on the wide outside, where he can be a nightmare for defenders. England lost out aerially against Scotland, but this time, George Ford could hoist the ball towards Freeman's wing with Pollock sniffing for loose balls. Few English forwards, aside perhaps from Tom Croft, possess Pollock's searing pace and poacher's instinct.
Ireland's Challenge and England's Strategy
Ireland, naturally, will aim to slow down England's ball, stop them at the gain-line, and force a slugfest, limiting Pollock's time and scope out wide. Andy Farrell, having coached the British & Irish Lions, has had a close-up look at England players and knows their strengths and weaknesses. However, Farrell admires Curry and backed Freeman as a Lions Test starter, and may wince at Lawrence's return for more midfield punch.
The last time Smith played against Ireland at Twickenham, his dramatic late drop-goal secured a 23-22 win after England were 12-8 down at halftime. Ireland are seen as more vulnerable now, but that was the view about Scotland last week. Henry Arundell, having avoided a ban after his Murrayfield red card, will seek a less stressful afternoon, but nothing is guaranteed.
From Borthwick's perspective, the stage is set for Pollock to bounce England out of their Scottish introspection. "I will challenge him to express himself, be himself and bring what gets people jumping up and down with joy," said the head coach. As Winnie-the-Pooh's old mate would say, "The most wonderful thing about Tiggers, is I'm the only one."
