FOUR Worcester players have been included in the England U19 rugby squad for the international against Italy at Macclesfield's Priory Park ground on Friday.

Worcester flanker Chris Hallam, who was drafted into the squad as a late replacement for the defeat by Wales at Llanelli two weeks ago, has retained his place.

Hallam lines up alongside Sixways team-mates, lock Will Bowley, back-row forward Mark Hopley and scrum-half Rhodri McAtee.

Leicester Tigers lock Thomas Ryder and openside flanker Will Skinner are again in the squad and Northampton Saints utility back Paul Diggin has been called up. Diggin's club-mate, centre Benjamin Russell, will be captain as England attempt to get back to winning ways after two consecutive defeats.

Worcester's Nicky Crawford and Joanne Yapp are expected to line up for England's women as they seek a third Six Nations victory against Italy at Harlequins' Stoop Memorial Ground on Sunday.