Jack Nowell named in Six Nations squad

Exeter Chiefs wing Jack Nowell is set to debut for England on Saturday in the opening game of the RBS Six Nations.

The 20-year-old has already established himself as a regular starter for the Chiefs in premiership games and has been described as a ‘natural ruby player’ by head coach Rob Baxter.

Some commentators have claimed that the choice of Nowell in a new backline with only a combined total of only 91 caps by England’s head coach Stuart Lancaster is a risky proposition.

Rob Baxter has attempted to calm fears around Nowell’s inexperience, he said: “He certainly won’t let England down and if anything he might provide something that England have been missing for a little while.”

"Obviously I'm amazed by the news, it's something I've wanted ever since I was a little kid," said Nowell, speaking after he was first called to the squad.

"There had been a lot of talk beforehand that I could be involved, but without being rude to people I just tried not to pay attention to it all.

"To find out the news and be named in the squad is certainly a big honour and it's like a dream come true for me."

Nowell steps into the shoes of the Heineken cup’s leading try scorer Chris Ashton who has been omitted from this year’s Six Nation squad.

“We have been pleased with the form of Chris Ashton recently,” said Lancaster

“However, Jack Nowell has made great progress on the right wing and has also delivered in big games for Exeter Chiefs and we feel it is the right time to look at another option in that position.

“Chris remains an important member of the squad and I am sure he will be working hard to regain that position during the course of the Six Nations.”

Northampton centre Luther Burrell also makes his England debut on Saturday coming on as an injury replacement for the stricken Manu Tuilagi.

Lancaster will announce the starting team tomorrow.