The China Mail - Itoje returns to captain England for Scotland Six Nations clash

Second-row Itoje started last weekend's 48-7 thrashing of Wales on the bench after missing the start of England's preparations for the tournament to attend his mother's funeral in Nigeria.

The 31-year-old replaces Alex Coles, while hooker Luke Cowan-Dickie comes in for Jamie George in Borthwick's only other change.

England are aiming to win the title for the first time since 2020 and made an impressive start at Twickenham.

Scotland's campaign got off to a disappointing start in losing to Italy in sodden conditions in Rome.

But the Scots have won the last two meetings between the sides at Murrayfield.

"Playing Scotland at Murrayfield is always a fantastic occasion and a challenge we are relishing," said Borthwick.

"We made a pleasing start to the Championship, but we understand that we must continue to raise our standards."

Fly-half Fin Smith replaces Marcus Smith among the replacements.

But there is still no place for Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, who was forced out of the match against Wales with a muscle injury having initially been named in the starting 15.

England (15-1)

Freddie Steward; Tom Roebuck, Tommy Freeman, Fraser Dingwall, Henry Arundell; George Ford, Alex Mitchell; Ben Earl, Sam Underhill, Guy Pepper; Ollie Chessum, Maro Itoje; Joe Heyes, Luke Cowan-Dickie, Ellis Genge

Replacements: Jamie George, Bevan Rodd, Trevor Davison, Alex Coles, Tom Curry, Henry Pollock, Ben Spencer, Fin Smith

Coach: Steve Borthwick (ENG)

G.Tsang--ThChM