Varndell scored two tries as a part of the Saxons side that defeated Ireland A at Welford Road back in February and the 22-year-old will be looking for more of the same in Canada and the USA.
“Last year, I wasn’t involved in anything in the summer so to be making my way back into the set up is great for me,” says Varndell.
“I’m very happy to be selected for the Saxons. It’s a great squad and I’m looking forward to it. There are a few lads in there that I know well and I’m over the moon at being selected.”
Saxons head coach Steve Bates was equally delighted to include Varndell in his squad, although Newcastle’s acting director of rugby explained that the former Colstons schoolboy came close to making the full tour to New Zealand.
“Tom was close to being selected in the senior side but it was felt that the Saxons offered him an opportunity to play some competitive rugby rather than perhaps sit on a bench.” said Bates.
“It’s a massive honour to pull on an England shirt, whether it’s with the Saxons or the full squad,” said Varndell. “I’m going in the right direction and things are looking positive. I’m looking forward to playing more rugby this summer and doing well for the Saxons.
“The Saxons is just one level down from the full squad and fair play to everyone who’s made that tour. It’s somewhere I ultimately want to be and I’ll be playing as hard as I can and as well I can to progress to that stage.”
