Six Nations 2016: Maro Itoje and Joe Marler will start for England against Ireland
Maro Itoje will make his full international debut for England in one of two changes made by Eddie Jones for the Six Nations visit of defending champions Ireland. The Saracens lock replaces the injured Joe Launcbury, while in the front row Joe Marler comes in for Mako Vunipola.
Elliot Daly is in line for his first appearance after being named on a bench that also includes Northampton second-row Courtney Lawes, who is reinstated after the withdrawal of Launchbury. England are otherwise unchanged for their third championship match as they look to maintain their 100% start in Jones' first home game in charge.
"I have been pleased with the attitude the squad have shown during a comprehensive two weeks of training," the Australian said, "Everyone is pushing hard to be in contention so there were some tight calls on selection.
"Joe Marler made a big impact off the bench in Rome and will start at loose-head with Mako Vunipola finishing the game. Joe Launchbury is unlucky to miss out through injury; Maro Itoje is selected as a result and we're pleased for him.
"Elliot Daly has worked hard this week and is now ready for a place in the 23. He can provide cover in several positions in the back-line. Playing our first game at Twickenham after two away fixtures will be huge for us. We're determined to put in a strong performance against a clever Irish side who are the benchmark of European rugby."
England team to face Ireland:
15. Mike Brown, Anthony Watson, 13. Jonathan Joseph, 12. Owen Farrell, 11. Jack Nowell, 10. George Ford, 9. Ben Youngs; 1. Joe Marler, 2. Dylan Hartley, 3. Dan Cole, 4. Maro Itoje, 5. George Kruis, 6. Chris Robshaw, 7. James Haskell, 8. Billy Vunipola.
Replacements: 16. Jamie George, 17. Mako Vunipola, 18. Paul Hill, 19. Courtney Lawes, 20. Jack Clifford, 21. Danny Care, 22. Elliot Daly, 23. Alex Goode.
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