Wilkinson can inspire England to
win
By David Silver
It seems amazing now that only five years ago “experts” were
calling for the scrapping of the Six Nations as the Celtic countries and
Italy were not deemed worthy of taking on England or France.
How things have changed in that short time. Ireland are now ranked the
highest of the so-called Home Nations and Wales had a Grand Slam to savour
in 2005.
Meanwhile the Scots — under coach Frank Hadden — beat both
France and England in their last campaign to finish third while Italy
are constantly improving and can now not be taken lightly.
Against such an ever-shifting backdrop, this week’s contest between
England and Scotland at Twickenham has an intriguing look about it.
England have got to be strong favourites as the home team and Scotland
have not triumphed at Twickenham since 1983.
Injuries to both sides further points to an English victory with their
vastly superior resources and strength in depth.
Former Irish boss Brian Ashton’s first team selection includes both
the tried and trusted and some eagerly-awaited new faces. This England
coach knows what he wants and is looking for attack as the way out of
England’s recent doldrums.
Ashton’s Scottish counterpart Hadden has seen his strong back row
decimated by injury, especially with the long-term loss of inspirational
skipper Jason White.
Scotland’s other position of strength — scrum-half —
has also seen the loss of both Mike Blair and Chris Cusiter although the
latter has a chance of playing, as have Ali Hogg and Simon Webster.
Despite their recent troubles England should come through their Six Nations
opener unscathed.
The confirmation that Jonny Wilkinson will return for England will spur
on his teammates and a win on Saturday would set England up with every
chance of making it two out of two, with Italy the next visitors to Twickenham.
However make no mistake about it, the Scots would love nothing better
than to put one over on the World Champions on their home turf.
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