Six Nations 2024: Fraser Dingwall says England need time to build ‘connections’ in attack

Venue: Murrayfield Stadium Date: Saturday, 24 February Kick-off: 16:45 GMTCoverage: Watch live on BBC One; listen on BBC Radio 5 Live; live text on BBC Sport website and app

Centre Fraser Dingwall says England need time to build “connections” as they look to sharpen their attack against Scotland in the Six Nations.

England have won their opening two games for the first time in five years but their attack has lacked fluency.

Steve Borthwick’s side scored fewer tries than Italy in their win in Rome, while Dingwall added a late second in the victory over a youthful Wales side.

“There are still elements we are trying to expand,” Dingwall told BBC Sport.

“Our attack game is growing more and more. We are creating a lot of entries into the opposition 22 but we want to score more points when we are there.

“We have some unbelievable players on the ball so it’s about trying to find them space. We were able to move the ball to the edges a bit more against Wales and get our threatening guys the ball in their hands. Then it’s just creating one-on-ones for our powerful ball carriers.

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“Combinations need time to build those connections so you are aware of what people might do around you.

“It’s about them also seeing the same space and moving the ball there. The more we train and are aligned in what we are trying to do is when we will eventually see the results.”

Dingwall made his Test debut in the win against Italy before retaining his place at inside centre and opening his account to score in the corner against Wales at Twickenham.

The Northampton centre, 24, is likely to face competition for his place at Murrayfield with the experienced Manu Tuilagi recalled to the squad after recovering from a groin injury.

Tuilagi, 32, was a mainstay of England’s run to third place in the World Cup and will provide England’s attack with front-foot power in midfield, while Dingwall is smaller in stature and has an impressive style of distribution to bring others into the game.

“It is very healthy competition and Manu offers something different to the centre than we have and he is very experienced,” Dingwall said.

“I have spent time with Manu before and have learned from him. If we can find a way where we can complement each other in training as well, then that will benefit the squad.

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“I’ve learned so much being here and it has shown me areas of my game where I need to improve.

“I have more to do with my own ball movement and how I identify where the space is and move it there.

“Physically, there is definitely some growth around my contact skills. International level is a step up so if I can improve how effective I am in contact, that will definitely help me as well.”

Cambridge-born Dingwall played age-grade rugby for Scotland through his paternal heritage, before representing England at under-20s level.

Dingwall persevered in his ambitions to play for England despite being involved in 10 training camps without winning a senior cap, and he now says there will be no split loyalties in Edinburgh as the visitors look to end a run of three defeats against Scotland.

He added: “If I’m selected to play it will be very exciting.

“My dad is from a Scottish background and there will be some familiar faces but it’s a game I want to win for England. I’m very proud of my heritage but I’m desperate to win for England.”

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