England v Ireland: How the sides compare

ENGLAND:

Selection.

Eddie Jones has made just two changes to the side which saw off Italy in Rome 13 days ago. The hamstring injury which forced Joe Launchbury out of the second-row means Saracens’ exciting and versatile back five forward Maro Itoje gets a first start having made such a strong impression off the bench against the Italians on his debut. Itoje was initially intended to continue as a replacement, having seen off lock Courtney Lawes as Jones shifted the balance of his bench from six forwards to five and three backs for this game but when Launchbury’s hammer failed to pass fit, the Saracen was in and Lawes was recalled from Northampton to the bench. The other change comes at loosehead prop where Joe Marler comes in for Mako Vunipola, who reverts to the bench. Wasps centre Elliot Daly is included as a replacement for the first time and could be a potent weapon off the bench late on having already nailed a penalty for his club from more than 58 metres this season. Hooker Dylan Hartley continues as captain and will win his 69th cap today.