Bath flanker Ted Hill replaces injured George Martin for Six Nations showdown.
Topics covered
In a significant development for England’s rugby team, Bath flanker Ted Hill has been named as a replacement for the injured George Martin ahead of the highly anticipated Six Nations match against Scotland. The match is set to take place at the Allianz Stadium in Twickenham on Saturday, February 22, with kick-off scheduled for GMT.
This change comes as England aims to break a four-match losing streak against their Scottish rivals.
Injury concerns for England
George Martin, who started in England’s previous victory over France, has been ruled out due to a knee injury sustained during that match.
Despite being included in the initial matchday squad, Martin’s inability to recover has led to Hill’s inclusion on the bench. England’s head coach, Steve Borthwick, made this adjustment as part of a strategy to bolster the team’s performance against Scotland, who are also looking for redemption after a disappointing loss to Ireland.
Ted Hill’s rise in the England squad
Ted Hill, 25, has made two appearances for the national team, with his last cap coming in 2021 under former head coach Eddie Jones. His impressive form at Bath has caught the attention of England’s captain, Maro Itoje, who expressed his admiration for Hill, likening him to Superman for his athleticism and physique. Hill’s versatility, having played in both the back row and second row, adds depth to the squad, especially with the absence of a specialist lock on the bench.
Strategic implications for the match
The loss of Martin places additional pressure on Ollie Chessum, who is set to make his first England start in nearly a year. England’s senior assistant coach, Richard Wigglesworth, noted that Hill has trained extensively in the second row, indicating that he could adapt to various roles during the match. With Hill’s speed and agility, he is expected to contribute significantly, particularly in line-out situations, which will be crucial against a formidable Scottish side.
As England prepares for this pivotal match, the team is focused on overcoming their recent struggles against Scotland. With both teams eager for a win, the atmosphere at Twickenham is expected to be electric. Fans can catch the action live on BBC Radio and ITV1, with additional coverage available on the BBC Sport website.
