Sinfield expects 'niggle' from Scotland as big hitters return
The Guardian|February 21, 2024
England head to Scotland for Saturday's crucial Calcutta Cup clash boosted by heavyweight power, according to Kevin Sinfield who said his side are braced for "niggle" from their opponents at Murrayfield.
Gerard Meagher
Sinfield expects 'niggle' from Scotland as big hitters return

Steve Borthwick has Manu Tuilagi and Ollie Lawrence at his disposal again to power up his midfield after both missed England's opening two matches with groin and hip injuries respectively. The hard-hitting Leicester forward George Martin is also available again for his first Test appearance since his stunning display in England's narrow World Cup semi-final defeat by South Africa last October.

Not for the first time, Borthwick bemoaned England's lack of power after their narrow opening victory over Italy, and while Fraser Dingwall and Henry Slade have performed solidly in midfield in the opening two matches, the head coach is likely to involve at least one of Tuilagi or Lawrence against Scotland as England seek a first Calcutta Cup win for four years. "Ollie and Manu both bring power," said Sinfield. "What those two bring, they will kick the door down, and they certainly bring that.

This story is from the February 21, 2024 edition of The Guardian.

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This story is from the February 21, 2024 edition of The Guardian.

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