Chessum Returns to Starting Lineup as England Prepares for Crucial Calcutta Cup Clash

In a strategic move by head coach Steve Borthwick, Ollie Chessum has been named to start at lock for England in the upcoming Calcutta Cup match against Scotland at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham. This match is crucial for both teams as they aim to keep their title hopes alive in the Six Nations championship.

Chessum, who last started for England nearly a year ago, will partner with captain Maro Itoje. This lineup change sees George Martin moving to the bench due to a knee injury sustained in the previous game, though he is deemed fit enough to be included as a substitute.

Marcus Smith continues at full-back, with Fin Smith starting at fly-half after his standout performance in the thrilling win against France. The decision to keep Marcus Smith over Freddie Steward and Elliot Daly shows Borthwick’s confidence in Smith’s capabilities, especially against Scotland’s potential aerial challenges.

England, who have suffered defeats in their last four encounters with Scotland, are under pressure to reverse their fortunes and maintain their championship aspirations. Meanwhile, Scotland, after a strong start against Italy and a subsequent setback against Ireland, are determined to uphold their recent dominance and secure the Calcutta Cup for a record fifth consecutive year.

Recent Rivalry and Historical Context

Scotland’s recent record at Twickenham is formidable, with two wins and a draw since 2017. Their last loss at this venue was during England’s triumphant Six Nations campaign, which also saw them match New Zealand’s world record for consecutive men’s Test victories.

Chessum’s Impact and Versatility

Chessum’s return is a significant boost for England. Known for his versatility and leadership on the field, Chessum has been pivotal in shoring up England’s line-out and contributing to key plays. His resilience and determination to overcome injuries have earned him the respect and admiration of his teammates and coaches.

Expert Insights

Former England wing Chris Ashton highlighted Chessum’s multifaceted role, likening him to an ‘Allen key’ for his ability to fix and address various aspects of the game. Chessum’s work ethic and dedication are invaluable assets that often go unnoticed but are critical to the team’s overall performance.

As the teams prepare for this high-stakes encounter, the spotlight remains on Chessum and his ability to influence the game’s outcome. This match not only holds historical significance but also has major implications for the ongoing Six Nations championship.