England coach Steve Borthwick confirms unchanged XV for home Six Nations clash with Wales as Red Rose hope to build on opening Italy win
- The only change to the matchday squad comes with the return of Ellis Genge to the bench
- Borthwick will be hoping to gain momentum after a 27-24 win over Italy
- Wales, on the other hand, have made seven changes for Saturday’s match at Twickenham
Steve Borthwick has confirmed the selection of an unchanged England starting XV for the Six Nations showdown with Wales at Twickenham on Saturday.
The Red Rose head coach will stick to the same lineup he started last weekend’s victory over Italy in Rome as he looks to build further momentum in the second round.
The only change to the matchday squad comes on the bench as vice-captain Ellis Genge returns as expected after missing the opener with a foot injury.
In opting for squad stability, Borthwick has backed the five players who made their England debuts in Rome: Ethan Roots and Fraser Dingwall in the starting XV, along with Chandler Cunningham-South, Fin Smith and Immanuel Feyi-Waboso on the bench.
The latter – Exeter’s new wing sensation – is on the verge of winning just his second Test cap against his native country.
England coach Steve Borthwick has confirmed an unchanged starting XV for Wales
Vice-captain Ellis Genge returns to the team’s bench after overcoming a foot injury
Alex Mitchel was one of England’s try scorers as they fought through Italy from behind
George Ford kicked five penalties and a conversion as England turned it around in Rome
Setting the tone for the match against Wales, Borthwick said: ‘It was pleasing and important to have started our Six Nations campaign in Rome with a win. However, we know there are areas in our game that can be improved.
‘With a new group of players and some new caps we have tried to develop our game on both sides of the ball. Such changes take time, and I was pleased with the speed with which the players got comfortable and adapted against Italy last weekend.
‘I have no doubt that this group of players will relish the challenge ahead and look forward to creating a very special experience for our supporters.’