Maro Itoje Returns as Captain for England Clash with Scotland at Murrayfield

England will be led once again by Maro Itoje when they face Scotland away in the Six Nations this weekend, marking the lock forward’s return to the captaincy after a difficult personal period. The decision comes as England look to build on a dominant opening round victory and extend their recent winning momentum against one of their oldest rivals.

Itoje had begun England’s opening match against Wales on the bench after missing training following a family bereavement. He was introduced early in the second half and made an immediate impact despite a brief yellow card, and his leadership qualities were evident even in limited minutes. England went on to secure a commanding forty eight to seven victory, setting a strong tone for their Six Nations campaign.

Head coach Steve Borthwick has made only one other change to the starting side, with Luke Cowan Dickie coming in at hooker. Jamie George, who captained the team against Wales, moves to the replacements. The adjustment is seen as tactical rather than a reflection of form, with England opting for fresh energy in the front row for what is expected to be a physically demanding contest at Murrayfield.

England arrive in Edinburgh on a run of twelve consecutive victories across all competitions, a streak that has restored confidence after a challenging period in previous seasons. However, recent history at Murrayfield offers a note of caution. England have lost three of their last four Calcutta Cup matches at the venue, underlining the difficulty of the task despite their current form.

Scotland, meanwhile, are under pressure after suffering a surprise defeat to Italy in their opening Six Nations fixture. That result has raised questions about consistency and discipline, but matches against England have often brought out Scotland’s strongest performances regardless of form. The rivalry remains one of the most intense in international rugby, with the Calcutta Cup carrying significant emotional weight on both sides.

England’s selection reflects a balance between continuity and tactical flexibility. George Ford retains the fly half role, providing control and experience, while Alex Mitchell continues at scrum half after an assured display in the opening round. In the back row, Ben Earl and Sam Underhill are expected to play key roles in contesting possession and applying defensive pressure.

The bench composition also signals England’s intent to maintain intensity late in the match, with a strong forward presence and multiple options in the backs. Fin Smith is included among the replacements, offering playmaking cover and tactical adaptability should the game situation demand it.

For Itoje, the return to the captaincy carries both symbolic and practical importance. His influence in the lineout, defensive leadership, and emotional drive are central to England’s approach. As England aim to assert themselves early in the championship, this fixture represents a crucial test of their title credentials against a Scottish side determined to respond.