Rugby Union Weekly Six Nations: Pollock unleashed & Lawrence returns
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Feb 18, 2026 Ollie Lawrence, England centre known for physicality and linking play, talks selection, rivalry with Tommy Freeman and his partnership with Fraser Dingwall. Steve Borthwick, England head coach famed for tactical clarity, explains rotation, back-row pairings and squad management. They focus on Pollock’s start, midfield reshuffle, rotations for three-game runs and selection thinking ahead of Ireland.
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Rotation Driven By Schedule And Squad Depth
- Steve Borthwick rotated the squad because the championship schedule (three tests in a row) demands interchange and freshness.
- He balances rotation with backing players who need confidence rather than punishing them after one poor game.
Lawrence Found Out Via Training Bibs
- Ollie Lawrence learned he was starting after seeing training bibs hinting at selection before official confirmation.
- He described training, frustration at not playing, and excitement to bring physicality and create opportunities at 13.
Players Punished With No Haircuts Bet
- Lawrence revealed a team bet: the losing side chose three opponents to skip haircuts until the Italy game.
- He, Marcus and Freddie face three weeks without trims and joked about balancing performance with team punishment.