England have made Leeds Carnegie flanker Chris Walker captain for their RBS Under-20 Six Nations clash against Italy in Rovigo tomorrow night.

The Otley loanee said: “It’s a massive honour to be named captain for this game.

“Italy are a good side and, playing in front of their fans in Rovigo, won’t be easy. We’ve had a good week in camp and the boys have worked hard and are looking in good shape.

“Last season’s group enjoyed a good win against Italy (74-3) but we’re not thinking about that for one second as this is a different group of players.

“I captained England at under-18 level in 2010 when we played South Africa, so I know the responsibility that goes with it. But I’ll enjoy and relish the opportunity to lead such a talented bunch of lads.”

Also selected in a side that contains six changes is Leeds and Otley’s Dominic Barrow, who is in the back row after missing the 59-3 victory over Scotland last Friday with a hamstring injury.