England statement: Injured duo back in contention for Ireland Six Nations clash

RUCK’s 2024 Guinness Six Nations content 

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The dynamic half-back duo, instrumental to England's game plan, had been sidelined due to injuries, casting shadows of doubt over their participation in the crucial stages of the tournament.

However, amidst the uncertainty, Head Coach Steve Borthwick stepped forward with a glimmer of hope, providing a positive update as the team gears up for daunting encounters against Ireland and France. "I'm very hopeful that Marcus will be available for selection for this latter part of the tournament," expressed Borthwick, injecting optimism into the camp.

The anticipation surrounding Smith's potential return is palpable, with his creative flair and precise kicking game sorely missed in England's recent outings. His ability to dictate play and unlock defences could prove pivotal in the team's quest for victory.

But the good news doesn't stop there. Borthwick revealed that there have been encouraging developments regarding Alex Mitchell's injury, fueling hopes of his imminent comeback. "We have got positive news on Alex Mitchell's injury," Borthwick disclosed, "we are hopeful he will feature in the latter part of this tournament."

Mitchell's absence has left a void in the scrum-half position, with his sharp passing and astute game management sorely missed. His potential return would provide a significant boost to England's tactical options and add depth to the squad as they navigate through the final stages of the competition.

While there remains a degree of uncertainty surrounding their availability for the upcoming fixtures, the renewed optimism within the England camp is undeniable. The prospect of Smith and Mitchell rejoining the squad injects renewed belief and serves as a timely reminder of their resilience and determination to succeed on the international stage.

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Telegraph 4/10: "Perhaps unsurprisingly was not on the same page as Ford and Slade in both attack and defence in their first game together. Badly fell off a tackle on Redpath that led to Scotland’s third try."

Planet Rugby 4/10: "Barely saw him in an attacking sense. A few carries, one bad pass, one dropped ball – although that was George Ford’s fault – but not the form we’ve seen in the Premiership."

RUCK 5/10: "Not what the Bath centre would have wanted upon his return from injury. The powerhouse came alive with some clattering hits, yet threw a wayward pass into touch at 76 minutes that summed up his afternoon. So much more was wanted from England fans, who were excited to see him comeback."

Replacement: Manu Tuilagi

Rugby Pass 5/10: "Taking over from the injured Alex Mitchell, he began busily before a 16th-minute overcooked touch finder took pep out of England’s early stride. Deteriorated from there, his last act on 44 seeing him watch on in despair as van der Merwe collected Finn Russell’s crosskick to compete his hat-trick."

Telegraph 4/10: "Sharp service for the most part, but was unable to control the game with the boot, kicking out on the full and was continually harassed with his box kicking."

RUCK 5/10: "Unfortunate performance from Danny Care, as the hectic, misshapen approach to proceedings asked questions of the Harlequin. Misplaced a handful of kicks, in what was an underwhelming effort from the boot. Unable to track across after Finn Russell found van der Merwe with a cross-field kick, with the wing completing his hat-trick."

Planet Rugby 4/10: "Several levels below Alex Mitchell. The lack of length from box-kicks put England under pressure, especially early in the second half, while his decision-making from the base was atrocious. "

Replacement: Ben Spencer

Telegraph 5/10: "The try appeared to provide instant vindication for Borthwick’s bold selection, however his spill resulted in Van der Merwe’s second try. Some promising glimpses and some ghastly errors."

Replacement: Freddie Steward

Rugby Pass 5/10: "Carried and was physical in the early stages when England were on top on the scoreboard, but he soon fell out of the reckoning. Gave Russell penalty points for an offence on 35 minutes and he was hooked six minutes into the second period."

Telegraph 5/10: "Aside from one big hand-off was fairly quiet and missed a few tackles. Expect George Martin to come into the equation for the Ireland game."

RUCK 5.5/10: "Offside at the half hour mark, as England were sometimes over eager in their do-or-die blitz defence. Missed the ball in the air, as England lost the 43rd minute line-out, in the build up to van Der merwe 3rd try. Off for George Martin (47’)"

Replacement: Chandler Cunningham-South

Planet Rugby 5/10: "Nice work for the opening try but nothing much else really stood out. Place should be under threat after mediocre efforts in the first three rounds."

Replacement: Immanuel Feyi-Waboso