SIX QUINS PLAYERS NAMED IN BORTHWICK’S SIX NATIONS SQUAD
Six Harlequins players have been named in Steve Borthwick’s 36-man training squad for the Guinness Six Nations which begins at the end of this month with England’s first match away to Ireland.
They are Marcus Smith, Alex Dombrandt, Chandler Cunningham South, Fin Baxter and two uncapped players Oscar Beard and Cadan Murley.
The squad – consisting of 20 forwards and 16 backs – will gather at Pennyhill Park a week today before flying to Girona to begin their preparations for the Six Nations Championship.
The coach also named Maro Itoje as captain for the first time.
He said: “I’ve selected a squad where every player brings something unique to the group. The Six Nations is always a fiercely contested and exciting tournament, and this year will be no exception.
“We’re looking forward to the squad coming together in Girona to kick off our preparations for the opening challenge against Ireland in Dublin.”
On naming Maro Itoje as England Captain, Borthwick added: “With 88 England caps, Maro has been a central figure in this squad for many years, bringing a vast amount of experience both on and off the field.
“He’s a calm, influential leader, renowned his commitment to upholding high standards and his ability to motivate those around him.”
England have three matches at the Allianz Stadium against France, Scotland and Italy.