England Secures Dombrandt's Return for High-Stakes Calcutta Cup Clash Against Scotland

Alex Dombrandt has been reinstated into Steve Borthwick's 36-man England squad for the upcoming Calcutta Cup showdown against Scotland this Saturday at Murrayfield. This move comes after Dombrandt recovered from an injury that sidelined him during the Six Nations opener against Ireland.

Harlequins' dynamic number eight made a strong return to club rugby, scoring a try in a narrow 30-29 defeat to Saracens in the Premiership Cup last Saturday. His reintegration into the national team is expected to bolster England's back-row options, providing both power and finesse in the breakdown.

Squad Updates and Injury Returns

In addition to Dombrandt's recall, Alex Coles and Henry Pollock have been added to the squad, while Curtis Langdon and Alex Lozowski have been omitted. Coles, who plays as a lock for Northampton Saints, recently returned to action in the Premiership Cup after recovering from a wrist injury sustained in mid-January.

Meanwhile, Tom Curry and George Martin are back in training after sustaining minor injuries during England's nail-biting 26-25 victory over France last weekend. Their availability adds depth to the squad, particularly in the forward pack, where physicality will be key against Scotland's formidable lineup.

The Road to Twickenham

England's campaign in the Guinness Men's Six Nations began with a 27-22 loss to reigning champions Ireland, but the team has shown resilience in subsequent matches. The Calcutta Cup, one of the oldest and most storied rivalries in rugby, promises to be a thrilling encounter. The match kicks off at 16:45 GMT on Saturday, 22 February, and will be held at the iconic Allianz Stadium, Twickenham.

Coverage and Viewing Details

Fans can catch the action live on BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Sounds, with live text updates and highlights available on the BBC Sport website and app. The match will also be televised on ITV1, ensuring comprehensive coverage for rugby enthusiasts across the UK.

What’s at Stake?

The Calcutta Cup is not just about bragging rights; it’s a crucial fixture in England's quest to climb the Six Nations table. With Scotland currently riding high after a strong start to the tournament, England will need to bring their A-game to secure a victory and keep their championship hopes alive.

Key Players to Watch

• Alex Dombrandt: His return adds significant ball-carrying ability and defensive solidity.
• Tom Curry: Known for his work rate and breakdown prowess, Curry’s presence is vital.
• Finn Russell (Scotland): The mercurial fly-half could be the difference-maker for Scotland.

As the teams prepare for this historic clash, the stage is set for a match that will be remembered for years to come.