John Fletcher will coach the 26-strong squad once more, having led them to a clean sweep of wins over Argentina.

England U18s head into the competition boasting 12 players with experience of last season’s Grand Slam triumph in Cork or the development tour of Argentina.

But Fletcher said: “We enjoyed success last season, but this is a new squad and therefore a new opportunity for the players.

"What's really exciting this year is that we have a great balance in the squad. There is competition for places in every position.

“We have got some really good ball carriers, a strong pack and real pace in the backs so I am looking forward to some exciting rugby.”

England U18 Squad:

Harry Allen, Peter Austin, Ryan Bower, Rob Buchanan, Matt Everard, Ben Glynn, Alex Gray, Sam Jones, Charlie Matthews, Henry Thomas, Joe Trayfoot, Sam Twomey, Billy Vunipola, Mako Vunipola, Joe Cobden, Sam Edgerely, Owen Farrell, George Ford, Ryan Glynn, Jonathan Joseph, Jake Sharp, Andy Short, Sam Stuart, Christian Wade, Jack Wallace, Marcus Watson.

Fixtures:

March 22nd: Kingston Park, 2pm England v Scotland
March 29th: Sandy Park, 230pm, England v Japan High Schools
April 12th: 5pm, England v Wales, Grand Parma Rugby
April 15th: 7.30pm, England v Ireland, Viadana RUFC
April 18th: 4.00pm, England v Italy, Viadana RUFC