Roots and Brown-Bampoe named in England A training squad

Exeter Chiefs’ back-row Ethan Roots and winger Paul Brown-Bampoe have both been named in the England A training squad for their upcoming fixture against an Ireland XV.

Head coach Mark Mapletoft has selected a 26-player group to prepare to face the Irishmen at Thomond Park on Friday, 6 February [KO 19:15].

The squad will take part in a five-day training camp in Teddington next week with nine previously-capped senior England internationals involved in the group. Brown-Bampoe is one of eight players selected for their first involvement with the A squad.

Mapletoft said: “This is a really exciting England A group and there’s a lot of talent in this squad that we’re looking forward to seeing express itself on the pitch. These players have earned their selection through strong performances at club level, and this fixture gives them the chance to test themselves in a high intensity environment and show what they’re capable of.

“There’s a strong balance of experience and emerging potential across the squad, and that competition for places is exactly what we want within the A side. Matches like this are about pushing standards, building confidence and giving players the platform to take the next step in their England journey. There’s real anticipation around this game and we’re excited to see how this group develops together.”

Next week’s fixture will be broadcast live on Premier Sports.