Slade ruled out of England’s Six Nations opener against Scotland

Henry Slade has been ruled out of England’s Guinness Six Nations opener against Scotland at Twickenham with a hip injury.

Slade picked up the knock during Exeter’s game against Castres last weekend and has not recovered sufficiently to be considered for England selection, but Jamie George is included in the squad ahead of the Calcutta Cup clash on February

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The Saracens hooker was initially withdrawn from the group after he was concussed in their defeat to Edinburgh last weekend.

However, he will continue to work through his graduated return-to-play protocols.

Anthony Watson has also been recalled following injury, England Rugby confirmed in a squad update issued on Sunday evening.

England head coach Steve Borthwick said: “This is a very important week for us as we prepare for our first game against Scotland.

“We know that Scotland are an excellent side with a great coaching team led by Gregor Townsend.

“They’re a settled squad who have been together a long time and have dominated this fixture in recent seasons.

“They will be coming to Twickenham full of confidence.

"We know we have a lot of work to do.

"The team trained very hard last week and are ready to go once again this week.

“We can’t wait to run out at Twickenham again in front of our incredible supporters.”

*Uncapped Tom Stewart has joined the Ireland squad as preparations continue for their Guinness Six Nations opener against Wales.

The Ulster hooker comes into the group as additional cover for Ronan Kelleher, who will be monitored after picking up a hamstring injury.

Stewart is a former Ireland Under-20 international and was also involved in the matchday preparations for the Ireland A game against the All Blacks XV in November.

Ireland go into the Six Nations tournament top of the current World Rugby rankings and will travel to the Principality Stadium in Cardiff to face Wales on Saturday.