The significance of Billy Vunipola’s return for England cannot be overstated. Not only does he lift those around him, he also brings formidable carrying that Eddie Jones’s side lacked in the early stages of the competition. As the Championship has worn on, however, Maro Itoje has grown into his role at blindside flanker and Courtney Lawes now finds himself in his best ever international form. Itoje and Lawes swap at scrum time and so you could argue Lawes is effectively playing at No6, regardless of the number on his back. His carrying was relentless against Scotland and while England are no doubt boosted by Vunipola’s return, and it makes clear sense for Eddie Jones to select him, the head coach will be all the more pleased with how England have made up for his absence. His selection is a bonus but it is because he is ready rather than being rushed.
Continue reading...Six Nations: seven things to look out for this weekend
Billy Vunipola’s return should boost England, while Ireland are likely to struggle without Conor Murray and France may be distracted by domestic matters