England coach Eddie Jones has recalled Sam Simmonds at No 8 for Saturday’s Six Nations clash with Ireland at Twickenham.
Simmonds replaces Alex Dombrandt, now on the bench after a bout of coronavirus following England’s 23-19 win over reigning champions Wales in London last time out.
Tom Curry has passed the return-to-play protocols from a concussion to continue at openside flank in a back row that also features England captain Courtney Lawes.
“He’s a powerful character and a carrier,” said Jones of Simmonds. “He’s a very physical defender, in particular with the way Ireland attack he’s going to be important around that 10 [flyhalf] area.
In the the only other change to the starting XV, Joe Marchant is preferred ahead of Elliot Daly at outside centre, where he will partner Henry Slade in midfield.
“Joe is a specialist 13 [outside centre] who can play on the wing,” said Jones. “He’s very good under the high ball. I just think he might give us a bit more direct carrying.”
England – 15 Freddie Steward, 14 Max Malins, 13 Joe Marchant, 12 Henry Slade, 11 Jack Nowell, 10 Marcus Smith, 9 Harry Randall, 8 Sam Simmonds, 7 Tom Curry, 6 Courtney Lawes (c), 5 Charlie Ewels, 4 Maro Itoje, 3 Kyle Sinckler, 2 Jamie George, 1 Ellis Genge.
Subs: 16 Jamie Blamire, 17 Joe Marler, 18 Will Stuart, 19 Joe Launchbury, 20 Alex Dombrandt, 21 Ben Youngs, 22 George Ford, 23 Elliot Daly.
© Agence France-Presse
