Cumbrian Steve Borthwick insists England will be ready for the aerial onslaught awaiting in Dublin as they start their Six Nations campaign against Ireland.

Ireland half-backs Johnny Sexton and Conor Murray are two of the game’s most dangerous kickers and dealing with the expected bombardment will be key to causing an upset in tomorrow’s showdown at the Aviva Stadium (4.45pm kick-off).

England’s Carlisle-born forwards coach Borthwick said: "The high ball contest is going to be a major aspect of the game.

"Ireland are an extremely well-drilled and well-coached team. They’re very clear about how they want to play and are a team packed full of different threats."

Mark Wilson, who began his junior career in Penrith, will earn his ninth cap, having been included in England’s starting XV.

Centre Manu Tuilagi, meanwhile, will make his first Six Nations start since 2013 against the defending champions while Elliot Daly is preferred at full-back to Mike Brown.

Head coach Eddie Jones told England Rugby's website: "I think it’s quite clear, to beat Ireland, you have to beat them in the contest area.

"They are very good at the breakdown and in the air, both those areas are a priority for us.

"Traditionally, England and Ireland games are always very close. They are tough affairs, there is a lot of emotion in the games, so our ability to finish the game strongly is going to be vital.

"It’s well-documented no-one thinks we can win, but I can tell you everyone inside our camp believes we can win."