Eddie Jones says the players in a young England squad have a “great opportunity” this summer, starting with the game against Scotland A at Mattioli Woods Welford Road this Sunday (2.00pm).
With some seniors away on duty with the British & Irish Lions and others taking time off from a hectic calendar, national coach Jones selected 21 uncapped players as the squad began the build-up to the three summer fixtures.
“Our approach this week is that it is a Test match,” Jones said as the squad prepared at its London base ahead of the fixture in Leicester on Sunday.
“It is a great opportunity for these young players.
“We really emphasise to do everything you can to maximise your potential and what can you do to become a better player.”
Jones, who said competition among the players was “amazing”, has included six Leicester Tigers representatives in the group for the start of the summer series, led by Ellis Genge who has 28 senior caps and is the most experience international in the squad.
He is joined by the uncapped Joe Heyes, Freddie Steward, Dan Kelly and Harry Wells plus George Martin who gained a first Test cap during this season’s Six Nations.
After Sunday, the squad will be revised again with the addition of players from the Gallagher Premiership Final clubs ahead of Tests against the USA and Canada at Twickenham.
Tickets for Sunday’s game are still available at the Tigers ticket office. Book online or phone 0116 319 8888 (option 2).