England Saxons will name the squad to defend their Churchill Cup title in next month’s games at Northampton, Gloucester and Worcester on Monday, May 30.

The Saxons face the USA at Franklin’s Gardens on Saturday, June 4 (5pm) and Tonga at Kingsholm on Sunday, June 12 (2.30pm). Italy A, Russia and Canada are their potential opponents on finals day at Sixways on Saturday, June 18.

The squad will include a large proportion of those on duty for England against the Barbarians at Twickenham Stadium this Sunday, meaning that Northampton Saints, Gloucester Rugby and Worcester Warriors supporters will get to cheer on local heroes including the likes of Stephen Myler, Lee Dickson, Dave Attwood, Charlie Sharples, Henry Trinder, Graham Kitchener and Miles Benjamin.

The Saxons players are also playing for places in the senior England training squad for the Rugby World Cup.

“The Churchill Cup is a crucial competition for England Saxons, especially in a World Cup year as it gives Martin Johnson and his coaches a look at some players who might force their way into the squad for New Zealand.” commented England Saxons head coach Stuart Lancaster.

“We will look forward to meeting the USA again and with Tonga joining it will be a great opportunity for the players to benchmark themselves against teams who will be competing in the World Cup.”