Underhill's hopes of England return against Ireland dashed

England flanker Sam Underhill has been released from the squad preparing for the crucial Six Nations fixture with Ireland at Twickenham on Saturday, ending his hopes of a first cap since the autumn internationals following illness and a hip injury.

Underhill was named in a 36-man selection by coach Eddie Jones on Sunday, but was released along with eight others on Tuesday as England step up preparations for the must-win fixture.

That may mean Jones is confident Tom Curry will successfully negotiate his return to play protocols after suffering a concussion in the 23-19 win over Wales on Feb. 27.

Number eight Alex Dombrandt has been retained after he returned a positive COVID-19 test last Friday, with Jones eager to give him every chance to be ready having been impressive in the championship so far.

"He has to do all the cardiac tests, and then we’ll see on Thursday whether he can train, and participate in the training at the necessary level," Jones told reporters this week. "And if that’s the case then he has a chance to play against Ireland."

Wing Louis Lynagh withdrew from the squad earlier in the week after also testing positive for COVID-19, while hooker Nic Dolly and scrum-half Alex Mitchell, as well as uncapped backs Orlando Bailey, Ollie Hassell-Collins and Luke Northmore, have also dropped out.

England need a win on Saturday to set up a championship decider with France in their final match in Paris on March 19.

England squad

Forwards: Alfie Barbeary (Wasps, uncapped), Jamie Blamire (Newcastle Falcons, 5 caps), Ollie Chessum (Leicester Tigers, 1 cap), Tom Curry (Sale Sharks, 39 caps), Alex Dombrandt (Harlequins, 7 caps), Charlie Ewels (Bath Rugby, 29 caps), Ellis Genge (Leicester Tigers, 34 caps), Jamie George (Saracens,