England head coach Steve Borthwick is banking on 21-year-old Henry Pollock to inject energy into the side after a disappointing defeat to Scotland in round two of the Six Nations. Pollock makes his first Test start against Ireland at Twickenham on Saturday, with England needing a win to keep their title hopes alive.
Ireland have recalled experienced players including Josh van der Flier, Tadhg Beirne, Tadhg Furlong and Jamison Gibson-Park, all in their thirties, as they seek a statement performance. Andy Farrell's side have won four of their last five Six Nations meetings with England, but have looked less formidable since summer 2024.
Former Ireland captain Keith Wood has praised Pollock's box-office quality, calling him a 'pain in the arse' but a player of extraordinary ability. Pollock was selected for the British & Irish Lions tour last summer but did not start Tests.
England have only two home fixtures this championship, making Saturday's match crucial. Another defeat would end their title challenge and leave them without a high-profile Twickenham opportunity until November.
