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England name team to face Wales in Six Nations opener

England head coach Steve Borthwick has named his team to face Wales (Ben Whitley/PA) — England head coach Steve Borthwick has named his team to face Wales (Ben Whitley/PA) (PA Wire)

Maro Itoje will start on the bench for England's Six Nations opener against Wales at Twickenham on Saturday, with Jamie George captaining the side.
Itoje's reduced role follows his attendance at his mother's funeral in Nigeria, which caused him to miss the official launch of the Six Nations and arrive late to training.
The centre pairing will be Fraser Dingwall and Tommy Freeman, who previously combined to thrash Wales 68-14 in last year's Six Nations.
Henry Arundell makes his first start for England since the 2023 World Cup on the wing, alongside Freddie Steward and Immanuel Feyi-Waboso.
Coach Steve Borthwick highlighted the fierce rivalry with Wales, expecting a kicking game from the opposition, and stressed the importance of execution and discipline for England.

Maro Itoje on the bench for England’s Six Nations opener against Wales — In full