Anthony Watson will make his first England start for almost two years in Saturday’s Six Nations clash with Wales in Cardiff.
The Lions wing has finally beaten a leg injury that has hampered his season at Leicester, with the 28-year-old now at full tilt.
Watson will make his first England start since March 2021, replacing the injured Ollie Hassell-Collins in England’s starting lineup for the Principality Stadium trip.
Watson’s inclusion represents the sole change to England’s starting XV from the 31-14 win over Italy - their first under new head coach Steve Borthwick.
The fit-again Courtney Lawes will take a seat on the bench, having finally shaken off glute and calf concerns. Lawes steps onto the bench ahead of Saracens’ Nick Isiekwe, with Ben Curry covering the back row from the bench.
Ben Curry has replaced twin brother Tom, who suffered a new hamstring injury earlier this week having only just beaten a similar issue to return to the squad.
“I am delighted to have welcomed Courtney Lawes back to the squad after injury,” said Borthwick. “His quality and experience has contributed to a focused training week, marked by the sort of competition and intensity we expect.
“I could not have asked any more from all the players and there is no doubt that they can’t wait to be a part of this special occasion.”
England team to face Wales in Six Nations
F Steward; M Malins, H Slade, O Lawrence, A Watson; O Farrell (c), J Van Poortvliet; E Genge, J George, K Sinckler, M Itoje, O Chessum, L Ludlam, J Willis, A Dombrandt.
Replacements: J Walker, M Vunipola, D Cole, C Lawes, B Curry, A Mitchell, M Smith, H Arundell.
