South West inclusions as England men's Six Nations squad named
Six players from across our region are on the list, but there's some notable omissions
Six players from the South West are included in the England men's rugby squad for the Six Nations, the first selected by new head coach Steve Borthwick.
Included on the 36 man list are Ellis Genge and Kyle Sinkler from the Bristol Bears, Sam Simmonds from Exeter Chiefs, Mako Vunipola who plays for Saracens but grew up in South Gloucestershire and Gloucester Rugby's George McGuigan, who is yet to earn an England cap.
The only back on the list representing the South West is the Chiefs' Henry Slade, who has been capped 52 times.
Commenting on his first Six Nations squad, Borthwick says he wants them to get off to a flying start against Scotland at Twickenham, on February 4.
“This is an exciting squad, with a blend of Six Nations experience and young talent, and includes players who are in excellent form in the Premiership," he said.
“We are all looking forward to the challenges of the Six Nations and we will approach this great tournament with a spirit of courage and total commitment.
“I know the players can’t wait to get back to Twickenham and give our fans a performance they can be proud of.
“The hard work for the Scotland game starts now.”
The squad is interesting for several notable omissions as well as those who make the list.
Among those who miss out is Mako Vunipola's brother Billy, who when fit, has been a regular at number eight for England for many years.
Gloucester's winger Jonny May, who's been capped 72 times is also out as is Exeter Chiefs' winger Jack Nowell, while no one from Bath Rugby has been included.
The squad in full is as follows:
Forwards: Ollie Chessum, Dan Cole, Ben Curry, Alex Dombrandt, Ben Earl, Ellis Genge, Jamie George, Joe Heyes, Jonny Hill, Nick Isiekwe, Maro Itoje, Courtney Lawes, Lewis Ludlam, George McGuigan, Bevan Rodd, Sam Simmonds, Kyle Sinckler, Mako Vunipola, Jack Walker, Jack Willis.
Backs: Elliot Daly, Owen Farrell, Tommy Freeman, Ollie Hassell-Collins, Dan Kelly, Max Malins, Joe Marchant, Alex Mitchell, Cadan Murley, Henry Slade, Fin Smith, Marcus Smith, Freddie Steward, Manu Tuilagi, Jack van Poortvliet, Ben Youngs.