England men U20s head coach Alan Dickens has made four changes to his starting XV to take on Wales in round four of the U20 Six Nations Championship.
Dickens’ side take on Wales at Kingsholm Stadium, Gloucester (KO 7.45pm, live on Sky Sports Action and Mix).
In the front row there is a first start for Emmanuel Iyogun and a debut for fellow prop Cal Ford.
The other change in the forwards sees flanker Rob Farrar make his first start for England U20s, while centre Max Ojomoh returns.
Among the replacements are hooker Sam Riley, lock Alex Groves and wing Josh Gillespie who will both make their U20s debuts if they come on.
England will be captained by centre Connor Doherty, while Gloucester fly-half George Barton will be playing on home soil at Kingsholm.
Dickens’ side won their opening two fixtures of the Championship, before losing to Ireland in round three.
Alan Dickens said: “We were frustrated with the defeat to Ireland in round three, but it’s a learning experience for the players and that is a focus for us. We have to learn the lessons and respond against Wales, who will no doubt also be tough opponents.
“For me, Kingsholm was one of the best places to come and play and we’re looking forward to being back on home soil in front of knowledgeable fans who will no doubt be vociferous in their support, which makes a huge difference to the players.
“We have several players involved in the Premiership this weekend and that is great experience for them, but in turn gives others in our squad an opportunity to show how good they are.
“We’ve named Connor as captain this week as we want to grow the leadership group which we know will be useful heading into the World Rugby U20 Championship in July.
“He is well respected in the group, experienced at this level and one of those players who will lead by example.
“My message to the squad will be to enjoy the experience, learn the lessons from Ireland and put a performance in that they are proud of and that reflects how hard they have worked this week.”
England men U20s side to face Wales
- Freddie Steward (Leicester Tigers)
- Gabriel Hamer-Webb (Bath Rugby)
- Connor Doherty (Sale Sharks) – captain
- Max Ojomoh (Bath Rugby)
- Tom Roebuck (Sale Sharks)
- George Barton (Gloucester Rugby)
- Sam Maunder (Exeter Chiefs)
- Emmanuel Iyogun (Northampton Saints)
- Theo Dan (Saracens)
- Cal Ford (Sale Sharks)
- Hugh Tizard (Harlequins)
- George Hammond (Harlequins)
- Rob Farrar (Newcastle Falcons)
- Richard Capstick (Exeter Chiefs)
- Rusiate Tuima (Exeter Chiefs)
Replacements:
- Sam Riley (Harlequins)
- Sam Crean (Saracens)
- Harvey Beaton (Saracens)
- Alex Groves (Bristol Bears)
- Jack Clement (Gloucester)
- Jack Van Poortvliet (Leicester Tigers)
- Will Haydon-Wood (Newcastle Falcons)
- Josh Gillespie (Northampton Saints)
England men U20s Six Nations results
France 24-29 England
Scotland 17-21 England
England 21-39 Ireland
