The Big Bash is back.
Eddie Jones has named his England team for the pivotal Six Nations clash with Wales, and some big-hitters return.
For their recent win against Italy, Jones made eight changes to the team that started their Six Nations campaign with a narrow away defeat to Scotland.
Knowing that their title hopes rest on defeating the Welsh at Twickenham, on Saturday afternoon, the England head coach has returned to some of his most trusted lieutenants. There are, as is the norm with Jones, a couple of big calls and ones to get folks chattering.
Henry Slade of England runs with the ball during the Guinness Six Nations match against Italy. (Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images)Manu Tuilagi returns to England midfield
The big news in the England backline was flagged the moment Sale Sharks centre Manu Tuilagi was recalled to the training squad. He starts at inside centre with Henry Slade shifting out to 13.
Harry Randall retains the starting scrumhalf spot after a positive showing in Rome. Ben Youngs must play deputy among the ‘finishers’ on the bench.
Up front, Courtney Lawes is straight back into the starting XV as blindside. He also takes over the captaincy from Tom Curry, who starts at openside. Charlie Ewels starts beside Maro Itoje in the second row.
Wales started off their Six Nations title defence with an away defeat to Ireland before getting back on track with a home win against the Scots.
ENGLAND TEAM TO FACE WALES
15. Freddie Steward
14. Max Malins
13. Henry Slade
12. Manu Tuilagi
11. Jack Nowell
10. Marcus Smith
9. Harry Randall1. Ellis Genge
2. Luke Cowan-Dickie
3. Kyle Sinckler
4. Charlie Ewels
5. Maro Itoje
6. Courtney Lawes
7. Tom Curry
8. Alex DombrandtREPLACEMENTS: 16. Jamie George, 17. Joe Marler, 18. Will Stuart 19. Nick Isiekwe, 20. Sam Simmonds, 21. Ben Youngs, 22. George Ford, 23. Elliot Daly
“We’ve prepared very well for this game, the squad have really come together on and off the pitch,” said Eddie Jones. “Wales are a good, tough side and Six Nations champions and it will make for an exciting Test match in front of a full Twickenham crowd.
“We’ve got a talented, young, hungry squad who have trained with real intensity this week. We’re ready to go at them and can’t wait to play in front of our supporters again.”
Wayne Pivac has also named his Wales team, with Taulupe Faletau coming straight back in to take the No.8 jersey.
Dan Biggar is cleared fit to captain the reigning champions while Owen Watkin keeps the 13 jersey from Jonathan Davies.
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