England make 12 changes for Italy game as Borthwick swings Six Nations axe

Guardian Sport

by Gerard Meagher

March 3, 2026

Entirely different back line selected for fixture in Rome Only three players in same position as Ireland game Steve Borthwick has wielded the axe and made 12 changes to his England team to face Italy, picking an entirely different back line as he seeks to salvage his side’s Six Nations campaign with the most radical selection of his tenure. Borthwick has made nine personnel changes as well as moving Tommy Freeman to outside-centre, Ben Earl back to No 8 and Tom Curry to openside. Fin Smith has also been installed at fly-half and with Henry Pollock dropped after just one start. Continue reading...

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Originally published on Guardian Sport on 3/3/2026