"Long may it continue" - Ben Earl on the positive mood surrounding England

Fresh from a commanding 48-7 dismantling of Wales at Allianz Stadium, Steve Borthwick’s side head north with confidence high and a 12-game winning streak behind them. Yet history offers a sharp reminder of the challenge ahead: England have won just two of their last eight meetings with Scotland and have not tasted victory at Murrayfield since 2020.

For Earl, the intensity of training weeks is fuelled by the depth of talent pushing for selection, with standards set so high that complacency is impossible.

“It’s everything. You almost look at that England A game on Friday night, and god, they could all play for this team. That’s how good the English sphere is at the moment. It’s only making us better. It’s super frustrating in the week, and it requires a mental buy-in, but it means by Saturday you are so prepared emotionally and physically, that whatever comes our way we should be right. We put our faith in the boss and the people around him, and it’s been working so far, so long may it continue.”

The Saracens back row also has strong personal ties to the opposition, having toured Australia with several Scotland stars on the 2025 British & Irish Lions tour. Familiarity, however, will be put firmly to one side come kick-off.

“Yeah lots, all genuinely to a man great guys, even the ones who came in for a couple of weeks. Huw Jones, Sione [Tuipulotu]… getting to know their families was lovely as well. They’re great guys and players, so it’s going to be a real humdinger.”

Murrayfield itself holds mixed memories for Earl. He debuted there in England’s last win over Scotland, but also endured frustration in their narrow defeat two years ago. Still, he believes England’s ability to reset mentally has become a defining strength.

“Mixed. I made my debut in the last win, and then had that frustrating one two years ago. They’re a great team anywhere, but certainly a great team at Murrayfield… we wipe the slate clean and go again.”

With three of England’s remaining four Six Nations fixtures coming away from home – and a potential title decider in Paris on the final day – Earl stresses the importance of staying true to their identity on the road.

“What is important about winning away? Well, don’t change stuff because you play away… if you play well you’ve got a good chance of winning.”

Scotland, smarting from a narrow 18-15 defeat to Italy in Rome, will be desperate to respond, but England arrive motivated, focused, and intent on carrying momentum into a pivotal championship run.