Youth and Excitement in Jones’ Six Nations Squad

England’s Six Nations squad was announced last Thursday, offering fascinating insight into the squad that Eddie Jones believes can take England all the way to World Cup glory in Japan. One exciting inclusion is Ollie Thorley, who has been in stellar form for Gloucester this season.

However it will be tough for him to break through with the class of Chris Ashton, Joe Cokanasiga and Jonny May all included and ahead in the pecking order. Former captains Dylan Hartley and Chris Robshaw are ruled out through injury making Owen Farrell captain outright. If Farrell proves that his decision-making and temperament are the standard of an international captain, we may see the end of the Hartley reign. Significantly, half centurions Mike Brown and Dan Cole return after their omission from the Autumn squad. Jones will be hoping they can offer their experience to a young England side.

The in-form Danny Care is excluded, Eddie Jones has surprisingly given an opportunity to the uncapped Dan Robson who will be looking to cement his World Cup place ahead of Care and Richard Wigglesworth. England kick off their World Cup campaign against Grand Slam winners Ireland on Saturday 2nd Feb in Dublin.