A FORMER Worcester Warriors player has been awarded his first senior call-up to the England squad.

Northampton’s rookie fly-half Fin Smith is present for the first time in the squad, providing cover for Owen Farrell and Marcus Smith.

Northampton Saints confirmed the homegrown Worcester talent had signed for the club on a multi-year deal in October 2022.

The talented outside half became the youngest-ever player to start for Warriors in the Gallagher Premiership in March 2021, when he lined up against Bath at the age of just 18 years and 313 days.

He made 31 senior appearances for Worcester, and his form at Sixways earned him a selection for England Under-20s for the 2021 Six Nations in Cardiff.

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Smith was influential in the Red Rose’s Grand Slam-winning campaign, scoring 31 points in five matches including a try against Scotland.

Speaking of the inclusion of young talent in the squad, new boss Steve Borthwick said: "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.

“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.”

Smith was signed amid the ongoing issues surrounding Worcester Warriors, which went into administration in September 2022.

READ MORE: Northampton Saints confirm signing of Fin Smith from Worcester

Speaking of the issues surrounding Worcester Warriors, Smith said: "The recent uncertainly has obviously been incredibly difficult for everyone at Worcester, and I will miss the players, coaches and supporters there – the last couple of months have shown what a special club it is.

"Having grown up at Sixways, Warriors will always have a special place in my heart, but I know this is the right move for me at this stage of my career, and I’m looking forward to hopefully hitting the ground running in Northampton."

In the latest squad, Borthwick also controversially dropped veterans Billy Vunipola, Jonny May and Jack Nowell.