Six Nations 2026: Maro Itoje returns to England's starting XV
Maro Itoje's Return: A Fresh Start or a Familiar Story?
The Six Nations 2026 is upon us, and one of the most anticipated returns is that of Maro Itoje to England's starting XV. But is this a fresh start for the prop, or is it a familiar story of challenges and perseverance?
Itoje, a key player in England's set-up, has been working hard to get his foot in the door. With the likes of Dan Cole, Will Stuart, and Kyle Sinckler setting standards, Itoje has been trying to base his game around the good bits of what they've been doing. It's been a long wait, but he's stuck at it, and every opportunity he's gotten, he's wanted to do his best.
The Prop Star Generation: Waiting is Not an Option
Itoje's journey is not unique. The new generation of England props, including Asher Opoku-Fordjour, Billy Sela, and Afolabi Fasogbon, are not waiting for anyone. If you're that good, why wait? This new generation is challenging the traditional belief that tight-heads are at their best at 27 or 28.
Joe Heyes: The Rising Star
Now, let's shift our focus to Joe Heyes, England's starting tight-head prop and an all-round interesting guy. Heyes is in the spotlight, and for good reason. He's a rising star, and his chat with Rugby Union Weekly is a must-listen.
Fin Smith: The Struggle for the 10 Shirt
On the other hand, Fin Smith is struggling with the England 10 shirt. After a tough few weeks mentally, Smith is dealing with the challenges of being a second-choice player. He's loved wearing the England 10 shirt, but losing it does hurt.
The Controversial Question: Should Fin Smith Start More Tests?
Should Fin Smith be starting more Tests given that he's likely to be England's future first-choice 10? This is a controversial question, and it's one that's sure to spark differing opinions. Some might argue that benching him won't help him improve as much, while others might see it as a chance for him to develop further.
Tom Curry: The World's Best?
Tom Curry, another key player, hasn't been starting as much as expected. Wasn't he described as the world's best not long ago? This is a question that's sure to spark debate, and it's one that's worth exploring.
Henry Arundell: A Full-Back Option?
Henry Arundell, a 23-year-old with early rugby roots at London Irish, could be an option at full-back. His pace from depth in the backfield with the ball in hand is impressive. However, with his defense, aerial game, and positioning on the wing developing this season, it might be a big shift to move him to 15.
Fin Smith's Role: A Matchday Squad Member?
Will Fin Smith be in the matchday squad to come on at 12 if Henry Arundell struggles under the high ball? This is a question that's sure to spark discussion, and it's one that's worth exploring.
Ben Earl: Righting Wrongs
Ben Earl, England's back row player, is not looking too far ahead. He's focused on winning, getting used to winning, and performing well. No one's talking about Paris in their camp, and they're determined to right some wrongs.
Maro Itoje x Jamie George: A Captaincy Collaboration
Maro Itoje, the captain, made a rare appearance as a replacement against Wales. Jamie George, who led the team in Itoje's absence, is back among the replacements. This change at hooker is interesting, if not hugely surprising, given the regular swaps between George and Cowan-Dickie over the past few years.
The England Team: Unchanged Backline
England has named an unchanged backline for the match with Scotland, with Fraser Dingwall and Tommy Freeman in midfield and Tom Roebuck and Henry Arundell on the wing. Maro Itoje returns to the second row, Luke Cowan-Dickie starts at hooker, and Fin Smith replaces Marcus Smith among the replacements.
Get Involved: Send Your Questions
Now that we've got the team, send us your questions. We want to hear your thoughts on the England team, the controversial decisions, and the players' journeys. Get involved and let's discuss the Six Nations 2026 together!
