Match Preview: England vs Ireland – Six Nations

England team named for Dublin as they hope to spoil the Irish party

Steve Borthwick has named his final 15 of the campaign as they look to end Ireland’s grand slam hopes on Paddy’s weekend.

Captain Owen Farrell returns at fly-half as Marcus Smith drops to the bench.

England will hope to improve on their performance from last weekend where they were overrun by a dominant French side in Twickenham 53-10.

This clash sees more importance for Farrell as his father Andy Farrell is current Ireland Head Coach but he relishes this opportunity.

When asked about the situation he said “It’s not weird for us two, it’s probably a bit more weird for the family that’s supporting, especially my mum.

“In terms for us, we’re just doing our job. He’s not out there on the field, it’s not direct competition.”

England XV to face Ireland:

1. Ellis Genge
2. Jamie George
3. Kyle Sinckler
4. Mario Itoje
5. David Ribbans
6. Lewis Ludlam
7. Jack Willis
8. Alex Dombrandt
9. Jack Van Poortvliet
10. Owen Farrell
11. Henry Arundell
12. Manu Tuilagi
13. Henry Slade
14. Anthony Watson
15. Freddie Steward

Subs: 16 Jack Walker, 17 Mako Vunipola, 18 Dan Cole, 19 Nick Isiekwe, 20 Ben Curry, 21 Alex Mitchell, 22 Marcus Smith, 23 Joe Marchant.