RICHARD Blaze looks set to make his England Under-21 debut tonight in their Six Nations tournament.

The 19-year-old, who is part of the England RFU Academy at Sixways, is being tipped to start against Wales in the Six Nations opener at Newport.

Worcester also have centre Simon Whatling involved in the squad which features a four-strong contingent from Premiership leaders Leicester.

Prop Matt Hampson, fly-half Ross Broadfoot, centre Matt Cornwell and winger Tom Varndell are all involved.

Jim Mallinder, England's Under-21 coach, said: "Training has gone really well and Nigel Redman, Peter Drewett and I are very pleased with the way things are coming together.

"The facilities at Bath University are great and the squad environment has been very positive.

"Although there have been a few injuries, we've had the strength in depth to cover and the players we have selected are a really talented bunch.

"England faced Wales three times last season in the Six Nations and World Championships and although we won each time they were a very difficult team to play and this year we face them on their own territory.

"The first game of any season is always exciting for players and coaches, especially for the younger players winning their first Under-21 caps."