Alex Mitchell expects Scotland response at Murrayfield

England are preparing for a challenging Six Nations encounter at Murrayfield after scrum-half Alex Mitchell warned Scotland will respond strongly following defeat in their opening match against Italy.

Alex Mitchell On Scotland Reaction

Mitchell said Scotland would be motivated after losing 18–15 to Italy in Rome and expects a fast start from the hosts. He described Scotland as a quality side and predicted an immediate reaction in front of a home crowd.

"I think it's going to be a tough Test match, as it always is with them," Mitchell said. "Obviously, they're a quality side.

"They're hurting from the result last week against Italy. So, they know they're going to come firing out the blocks that first 20.

"I think, obviously, there's going to be a massive reaction. I think that always happens after a loss. You're obviously frustrated and you want to kick into the next game as soon as possible.

"So, yes, they're going to be hurting and obviously going back home for them is going to be a massive, massive boost for them."

England began their campaign with a 48–7 win over Wales, and head coach Steve Borthwick is expected to keep a similar backline for the Calcutta Cup fixture.

Despite England’s strong opening performance, recent history at Murrayfield favours Scotland, with England seeking their first win there since 2020. Mitchell said matches between the teams are consistently physical and closely contested regardless of previous results.

"I'm really excited about the atmosphere - the bagpipes, how everyone gets behind the team. I love that. I love these environments.

"You want to play in the best stadiums in the world and that's definitely one of them.

"It's frustration, not having a few wins up there. It's always a different squad every campaign, isn't it? This is a new squad with a lot of confidence. And, yes, the boys are raring to go to get a performance."