Ashton forced to make back row switch

The England Head Coach’s forced switch means the England back row is an all London Wasps trio consisting of Haskell at blind side, Tom Rees at open side and Joe Worsley wearing the No.8 jersey. Haskell is in the England Sevens core squad for this season and played in both Dubai and George and quickly reaped the benefits. Then came the call-up to the 2007 England Saxons Six Nations squad for games against Italy A and Ireland A.

Haskell’s skills have been noted by the senior coaching staff who now promote him to make his full England debut in a move that is applauded by England Saxons coach and former England U21 coach Jim Mallinder.

“Having worked with James for several years I’m delighted that his chance has come. He’s been one of England U21 and the National Academy’s most consistent performers over the past two years,” he said. “Having broken into the Wasps first team he impressed in both his England Saxons performances this year and has proved that he can play at international level.

“He has a thoroughly professional attitude to training and is always putting in extra work. His fitness is excellent and this shows in his work rate on the pitch. Brian Ashton will be gaining a strong ball carrier who also likes to defend and is capable of putting in the big tackles.”