Warriors’ hooker Finn Theobald-Thomas is in line to make his England Under-20s debut in Friday’s Under-20s Six Nations match against Italy in Treviso (kick-off 7pm GMT).
Although Theobald-Thomas was not included in England’s Elite Player Squad he was a travelling reserve for last week’s victory over Scotland in Edinburgh and he has now been promoted to the matchday squad and been named as a replacement for the trip to Italy.
Theobald-Thomas, 18, was part of the Warriors side that finished third in the Premiership Rugby Under-18s Academy League two years ago.
He played his formative rugby for Wolverhampton and progressed from the Diploma in Sporting Excellence at Stourport HS & Sixth Form College to the Three Pears Warriors Academy last summer.
Theobald-Thomas has gained valuable senior experience with Stourbridge in National Two North on a dual registration this season and made his Warriors debut as a replacement in the Premiership Rugby Cup victory over Bristol Bears at Sixways in November.
He is one of six changes on England’s bench for Friday’s match with six more in the starting XV.
“The players were pleased with the performance against Scotland, particularly their ability to take control of the second half,” said England Under-20s Head Coach Alan Dickens.
“We’ve have had another good week training and seen some new faces in camp. The level of competition within the squad is something I have been really impressed with.”
“Italy will be a strong team on home soil, but the boys are looking forward to our second away trip and getting back onto the pitch in Treviso and improving on last week’s performance.
“Last week’s game was special for the players and as a team, in that 19 lads made their Under-20 debuts. The performance they put in on the night demonstrates the togetherness of the players and their willingness to work hard for each other.”