Itoje returns to lead England

February 10, 2026
283
Ultimate Rugby

England men’s head coach Steve Borthwick has named his team to contest the Calcutta Cup against Scotland at Murrayfield on Saturday, in the second round of the 2026 Guinness Six Nations (kick-off 4.40pm, live on ITV1).

There are two changes to the starting XV that defeated Wales 48-7 in the opening round of the championship with Maro Itoje and Luke Cowan-Dickie coming into the side. Itoje returns to captain the team. Elsewhere, Fin Smith is included among the replacements on a 6-2 split bench.

“Playing Scotland at Murrayfield is always a fantastic occasion and a challenge we are relishing,” said Borthwick. “We made a pleasing start to the Championship, but we understand that we must continue to raise our standards. The squad has trained with focus and determination this week, and we’re excited for the opportunity to test ourselves again on Saturday.”

England team to face Scotland

15. Freddie Steward (Leicester Tigers, 42 caps)

14. Tom Roebuck (Sale Sharks, 9 caps)

13. Tommy Freeman (Northampton Saints, 23 caps)

12. Fraser Dingwall (Northampton Saints, 8 caps)

11. Henry Arundell (Bath Rugby, 12 caps)

10. George Ford (Sale Sharks, 106 caps) – vice-captain

9. Alex Mitchell (Northampton Saints, 28 caps)

1. Ellis Genge (Bristol Bears, 76 caps) – vice-captain

2. Luke Cowan-Dickie (Sale Sharks, 54 caps)

3. Joe Heyes (Leicester Tigers, 18 caps)

4. Maro Itoje (Saracens, 98 caps) – captain