SPORT / SIX NATIONS

Happy anniversary?

Rugby’s oldest rivalry reaches a historical milestone this afternoon when England and Scotland clash in the 150th anniversary of their first meeting in Edinburgh in 1871. The fixture has been dominated by the red rose, who have won 76 of the 138 previous encounters. Eddie Jones’ men are odds-on favourites to win today, but a dramatic 38-38 draw two years ago will rid the champions of any complacency.

Pride of England

Jones, below, this week sounded a note of defiance by reminding Scotland they do not have a “monopoly on pride” in response to the mistaken belief that England are incapable of the passion displayed by their Celtic rivals. It was a reminder Gregor Townsend’s side face resolute opponents determined to launch their title defence with a statement victory. A mischievous Jones also questioned whether Scotland would fold beneath their own expectations. “It’s their biggest game of the year,” said the head coach. “Maybe, with 15 minutes to go, the expectation is going to get pretty heavy for them.”

Testing time for the Sarries spine

For all England’s conviction that their influential Saracens contingent will be ready, the fact that all but Billy Vunipola, right, have not played since December is a concern heading into the Twickenham showdown. The spine of the team hooker Jamie George, lock Maro Itoje, No 8 Vunipola, fly-half

Owen Farrell and fullback Elliot Daly - have been inactive for two months. No matter how intense England’s training, it will be unable to match the ferocity of the opening exchanges against spirited visitors. “There are a lot of Saracens guys who have not played an