For the first time in English rugby history, twin brothers will take to the field together in an international match.

Tom and Ben Curry are set to start side by side for England in their highly anticipated Six Nations opener against Ireland this Saturday.

This historic moment promises to add an extra layer of intrigue to what is already shaping up to be a thrilling contest.

The Curry brothers, who have previously only played together for Sale Sharks, have been selected by head coach Steve Borthwick to occupy the flanker positions.

Their synergy and prowess at the breakdown are expected to play a critical role as England prepares to take on the reigning champions in Dublin.

A Surprise Debut for Cadan Murley

Another standout decision from Borthwick is the inclusion of Harlequins winger Cadan Murley, who will make his international debut.

Murley joins Freddie Steward and Tommy Freeman in a back-three that will look to match Ireland’s attacking firepower.

Speaking ahead of the match, Borthwick shared his confidence in the squad:
“We’re looking forward to the challenge of facing the tournament favorites.

It’s going to be a tough battle against a team that knows each other so well.

Discipline and hard work will be key from the first whistle to the last.

England versus Ireland in Dublin is always a huge occasion, and we’ll be ready to meet it head-on.”

Leadership and Experience in Key Positions

The team also sees a shift in leadership dynamics.

Maro Itoje steps into his first Test as captain, replacing Jamie George.

Luke Cowan-Dickie has been promoted to starting hooker, adding grit to the forward pack.

Marcus Smith retains his spot at fly-half, partnering with scrum-half Alex Mitchell to ensure consistency in the half-back positions.

Borthwick has also named Ben Earl at No. 8, a move that pushes Ollie Chessum to the bench.

Meanwhile, Ollie Lawrence and Henry Slade continue in the centers, providing a mix of creativity and defensive solidity.

The Bench Brings Versatility

The replacements feature a blend of young talent and seasoned players.

Fin Smith, Harry Randall, and Tom Willis are among those ready to make an impact off the bench.

Borthwick’s choices emphasize balance, ensuring depth across all areas as England aims to start the tournament with a statement win.

England’s Starting XV and Replacements

Here’s the full lineup for Saturday’s showdown:

Starting XV
15. Freddie Steward (Leicester Tigers, 35 caps)
14. Tommy Freeman (Northampton Saints, 15 caps)
13. Ollie Lawrence (Bath Rugby, 31 caps)
12. Henry Slade (Exeter Chiefs, 69 caps)
11. Cadan Murley (Harlequins, uncapped)
10. Marcus Smith (Harlequins, 39 caps)
9. Alex Mitchell (Northampton Saints, 18 caps)

Ellis Genge (Bristol Bears, 66 caps) – vice-captain
Luke Cowan-Dickie (Sale Sharks, 44 caps)
Will Stuart (Bath Rugby, 45 caps)
Maro Itoje (Saracens, 88 caps) – captain
George Martin (Leicester Tigers, 19 caps)
Tom Curry (Sale Sharks, 56 caps)
Ben Curry (Sale Sharks, 6 caps)
Ben Earl (Saracens, 37 caps)

Replacements
16. Theo Dan (Saracens, 16 caps)
17. Fin Baxter (Harlequins, 6 caps)
18. Joe Heyes (Leicester Tigers, 7 caps)
19. Ollie Chessum (Leicester Tigers, 23 caps)
20. Chandler Cunningham-South (Harlequins, 11 caps)
21. Tom Willis (Saracens, 1 cap)
22. Harry Randall (Bristol Bears, 11 caps)
23. Fin Smith (Northampton Saints, 6 caps)

A Monumental Challenge in Dublin

Facing Ireland in Dublin is no small task, especially against a team widely regarded as tournament favorites.

England will need every ounce of grit and determination to land an early blow in the competition.

With Tom and Ben Curry making history, Cadan Murley’s debut, and a revamped leadership structure, all eyes will be on Borthwick’s side this Saturday as they take on the reigning champions.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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