THE Six Nations returns this weekend as Eddie Jones’ England defend their crown.
They begin their title defence against Scotland at Twickenham, where the visitors forced a stunning 38-38 draw on their last visit.
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Jones has a number of world class stars at his disposal, but will be without Mako Vunipola for the tournament opener.
Why isn’t Mako Vunipola playing against Scotland?
The Saracens prop has amassed 63 caps for England in his career, with his last try against Wales back in November.
He was expected to play a big part in the Red Rose’s title defence but is currently struck down by injury.
Vunipola was ruled out of the Autumn Nations Cup final with France back in December with an Achilles injury.
And the Lions star is still struggling, ruling him out of the Six Nations curtain-raiser at Twickenham on Saturday.
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When will he return?
Vunipola has been in rehab for the past two months to try and get fit for the tournament.
But England’s defence coach John Mitchell has revealed that a return date isn’t set in stone – despite the prop making good progress.
He said: “Mako did that Achilles niggle in November and he is still rehabbing that.
“To sum up simply, he is going good but he is probably one stage behind the return to training, he is probably at that level.
“If I look at it from a positive point of view, there are really good signs there. To be one stage from a return to training is a good sign.”
As such, Vunipola looks a huge doubt for the visit of Italy on February 13.
Kyle Sinckler is out suspended for the Scotland clash leaving England without their two first-choice props.
SIX NATIONS FIXTURES
When England, Wales, Scotland, Ireland, France and Italy will play
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England Six Nations fixtures
- Saturday, February 6 vs Scotland – 4.45pm (home)
- Saturday, February 13 vs Italy – 2.15pm (home)
- Saturday, February 27 vs Wales – 4.45pm (away)
- Saturday, March 13 vs France – 4.45pm (home)
- Saturday, March 20 vs Ireland – 4.45pm (away)
