It’s a third World Cup warm-up clash for Steve Borthwick & Co. this afternoon as the France tournament edges ever closer. A double-header against Wales produced one defeat and then a win back at Twickenham, but England are on the road again and find themselves at the Aviva Stadium this weekend.
A thrilling comeback victory on home soil last time out papered over concerning defensive lapses, the type of which Ireland are more than capable of punishing. Borthwick has made six changes, including George Ford coming in at fly-half after Owen Farrell’s now-rescinded red card. Courtney Lawes will wear the captain’s armband. Ellis Genge lined up at loosehead, Ben Youngs is scrum-half, and Manu Tuilagi returns at inside centre.
For Ireland, it’s a very similar team which won the Six Nations in March, beating England to seal the Grand Slam. Coach Andy Farrell has gone for experience after a fringe team beat Italy last time out. A victory today for the visitors would be a huge confidence boost ahead across the Channel. Follow the game LIVE below, featuring expert insight and analysis from Nick Purewal on the ground.
Live updates
Confirmed Ireland lineup
Ireland: Keenan; Hansen, Ringrose, Aki, Lowe; Byrne, Gibson-Park; Porter, Sheehan, Furlong, Beirne, Ryan, O’Mahony, van der Flier, Prendergast.
Replacements: Herring, Loughman, Bealham, McCarthy, Doris, Murray, Crowley, Earls.
England team news: Owen Farrell omitted
Captain Owen Farrell has been left out of the England squad as he faces an appeal from World Rugby after his red card was rescinded. George Ford will start at fly-half in his absence, with Marcus Smith on the bench.
Courtney Lawes will captain England, but Jack van Poortvliet will not be involved after he suffered an ankle injury and will now miss the World Cup.
Ireland team news: Jeremy Loughman called up
Munster prop Jeremy Loughman has been called up to the Ireland squad, replacing Dave Kilcoyne who is resting with an injury.
Back-rower Jack Conan could also feature after making progress on a foot injury.
Where to watch Ireland vs England today
TV channel: In the UK, the game will be broadcast on Amazon Prime.
Live stream: Subscribers will be able to watch on a live stream via the Amazon Prime app.
Live blog: Follow all the action with Standard Sport’s dedicated match blog.
Welcome
Good afternoon and welcome to Standard Sport’s LIVE coverage of England’s Summer Nations Series clash with Ireland today.
Kick-off from the Aviva Stadium in Dublin is at 5.30pm BST.
