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Steve Borthwick unfazed by Scotland gamesmanship threat

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Chris Robshaw says England will be wary of Scotland's attacking threat when they contest the Calcutta Cup at Murrayfield on Saturday

Steve Borthwick insists England will be ready for any gamesmanship from Scotland ahead of their Calcutta Cup match in the Six Nations on Saturday.

England teams visiting Murrayfield in the past have seen bagpipers slow down the team bus, with other tactics including interfering with the warm-up and switching off the electricity to the changing room.

Six Nations preview: Scotland v England
Six Nations preview: Scotland v England

Team news ahead of Saturday's Calcutta Cup game at Murrayfield

However, Borthwick is confident Eddie Jones' side are savvy enough to overcome any similar antics as they continue their quest for the Grand Slam and their third consecutive Six Nations crown.

"Off the field we try to put different situations to players and try to discuss different scenarios," the England forwards coach said.

"We like to make the players adapt, it's what we do in training."

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Chris Robshaw says England will be wary of Scotland's attacking threat when they contest the Calcutta Cup at Murrayfield on Saturday

Chris Robshaw also recalls the trickery used on their trips to Edinburgh to try and put them off their stride, including the notorious bagpipers incident.

"Their tricks and sideshows used to try and put you off, things like turning the lights off," he said.

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"At Murrayfield once, our coach had to enter the ground at a certain time. We weren't allowed to deviate from that time. Happily enough, as soon as we pulled in 50 bagpipers came out - pretty much crawled out in front of us.

"It delayed us a bit, but again we'd spoken about it. You play these mind games. It's a bit of fun.

"You stay together as a group and after the game you have a smile about it, but at the time it brings you closer. We've been through it before, so we're ready for it."

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