ROLLING THE DICE

Borthwick's ready to go all in for big bonus

- ADAM HATHAWAY

UNLIKELY gambler Steve Borthwick has put his chips on the table as England attempt to steal their first Six Nations title since 2020.

As his side enter into a Welsh storm, Marcus Smith's return to the side is the headline news.

But that's not the only surprise. Tommy Freeman, the Northampton winger, gets a first start at outside centre, Elliot Daly is shifted to the wing and Ollie Sleightholme, with six tries in eight internationals, is ditched from the other flank in favour of Sale's Tom Roebuck.

Fraser Dingwall is at inside centre but if he goes down early, then Ben Earl, switched back to No.8, will take over in midfield.

The selections are a risk but show Borthwick (inset) is going for the bonus point that could be vital if France slip up against Scotland.