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England hooker Jamie George said his side were “preparing for a proper battle” with “strongest rivals” Wales in their Six Nations clash at Twickenham on Saturday despite the reigning Grand Slam champions’ recent struggles.
Wales go into the match on the back of defeats by Ireland and France but George said: “You can’t take away the edge that this fixture brings.
“I’d say it’s our strongest rivalry historically. If you look back at the big games throughout my career they’re the ones we get most excited about.”
Wales came from 10-3 down at half-time to beat England 21-13 last year and George, a British and Irish Lions front row, said: “There’s a different edge to it. The Welsh fans when you play in Cardiff make it pretty hostile, so we’re looking forward to welcoming them to Twickenham and want to make it as tough for them as we possibly can.
“We’re aware Wales are coming in off the back of two losses and will be hungry as ever to get that victory. They’ll be as physical as anything so we’re preparing for a proper battle.”
His words were echoed by Wales captain Alun Wyn Jones, who said: “If you could be involved in one, it would be this one (a match against England) because of what’s gone before and the hype that goes around it. It doesn’t get lost with you.
“It alters the beast a bit when you play them home or away but that adds to the excitement in the week.”
