England name replacements for injured stars before Six Nations

England have made adjustments to their squad for the Six Nations opener against defending champions Ireland on February 1.

Injuries to key players, including Jamie George and Alex Dombrandt, have prompted head coach Steve Borthwick to summon five replacements as preparations begin in Girona, Spain.

The squad faces a significant challenge with the absence of experienced forwards. Jamie George, who had recently been replaced as England captain by Maro Itoje, sustained a hamstring injury during Saracens’ Champions Cup defeat to Castres. He has been ruled out of the opening weekend.

Alex Dombrandt, another crucial figure in England’s pack, will also miss the Dublin clash due to injury. Both players are expected to undergo rehabilitation, with their return dates yet to be confirmed.

The squad has also lost Alex Coles, Jack van Poortvliet, and Alex Mitchell, all of whom suffered injuries during club games. Mitchell, however, will travel with the squad to Girona to continue his recovery.

In light of these injuries, England have called up five replacements:

Curtis Langdon (Northampton Saints)
Arthur Clark (Gloucester Rugby)
Ben Spencer (Bath Rugby)
Henry Pollock (Northampton Saints)
Raffi Quirke (Sale Sharks)

These players will join the team’s training camp, where England will prepare for their highly anticipated opener against Ireland.

The additions bring a mix of youth and experience, with Langdon and Spencer offering proven abilities at the international level, while Pollock and Clark represent fresh talent.

England’s training base in Girona provides the squad with an opportunity to regroup and focus on their game plan ahead of a daunting first fixture against the reigning Six Nations champions.