Scrum-half Alex Mitchell is set to bolster England’s hopes ahead of their crucial Six Nations 2025 encounter with Ireland in Dublin on Saturday. The 27-year-old has recovered from a knee issue that had cast doubt on his availability, taking a full part in training on Monday in Girona, Spain.
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Mitchell’s return comes as a significant boost for head coach Steve Borthwick, whose squad has already been hit by a series of injuries. Jamie George, Alex Coles, Alex Dombrandt, and Jack van Poortvliet were all ruled out last week, forcing Borthwick to reshuffle his plans.
Despite these setbacks, Mitchell’s fitness provides a key playmaking option as England aim to secure their first victory in Dublin since 2019.
Mitchell, one of England’s standout performers in early 2024, missed the Autumn Nations Series due to a neck injury. His comeback sees club teammate Henry Pollock drop out of the 36-man squad, with Pollock joining the England Under-20s. This reshuffle reflects the high regard in which Mitchell is held within the England setup.
The Challenge Ahead
England face a daunting task against Ireland, who are the reigning Six Nations champions and have successfully defended their title for the past two seasons. The match will take place at the Aviva Stadium, a venue where England last tasted victory in 2019. However, Borthwick and his squad are determined to rise to the occasion.
Mitchell is expected to partner Marcus Smith at half-back. Smith, the Harlequins playmaker, has consistently worn the number 10 shirt throughout England’s summer and autumn campaigns. The duo’s combination could be pivotal in breaking down Ireland’s formidable defence.
In the backline, Henry Slade and Ollie Lawrence are set to continue their partnership at centre for the 11th consecutive Test. Slade, a veteran of England’s last triumph at the Aviva, emphasised the importance of continuity in selection as the team seeks to overcome a challenging 2024.
“The more you play with someone, the more you get to know what they are doing in every situation,” Slade told BBC Sport.
“The more I train with Ollie, the more I know what he likes and when he likes to be given the ball. My job as a second playmaker is to get the ball into players like his hands and Freemo’s [Tommy Freeman] hands on the outside, just to let them do what they do.”
Building on Past Success
Slade’s memories of England’s 2019 victory in Dublin are a source of inspiration for the team. On that occasion, Slade scored two tries in a commanding 32-20 win. Reflecting on the performance, he stressed the need for England to adopt a fearless approach this weekend.
“It was a great night for us,” Slade said. “We just attacked that game with everything from the start, and it is going to have to be nothing less than that [on Saturday]. You can’t go [to Dublin] in your shell. You have to go and put your game on the pitch, be physical, and just be excited about the challenge.”
Key Players to Watch
England’s backline will feature Freddie Steward at full-back, stepping in for the injured George Furbank. Steward’s reliability under the high ball and defensive solidity will be crucial against Ireland’s kicking game. Meanwhile, Ollie Lawrence’s dynamic running lines and ability to break tackles make him a key attacking threat.
In the pack, England will look to match Ireland’s physicality, particularly in the set piece and breakdown. The team’s ability to disrupt Ireland’s rhythm could be decisive in a game where margins are likely to be tight.
The Road Ahead
For England, Saturday’s clash is about more than just a single result. It represents an opportunity to turn around a disappointing year and build momentum for the remainder of the Six Nations. Victory against a powerhouse like Ireland would send a strong message and reinforce the belief that England can compete at the highest level.
With Alex Mitchell’s return to fitness and key players like Henry Slade and Marcus Smith ready to lead the charge, England have the tools to challenge Ireland. The Aviva Stadium awaits a thrilling encounter, and England will need nothing less than their best to emerge victorious.
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