Leicester Tigers rising star Youngs will play at scrum-half while Worcester’s Wood, who agreed to join Northampton next season earlier in the week, and Gloucester’s Attwood will play at flanker and second-row respectively.

Wasps fly-half Danny Cipriani - on the comeback trail from injury - made himself unavailable for the game due to a family bereavement.

Highly-rated Saracens youngster Alex Goode will start at full-back to allow Shane Geraghty, who was axed from the senior squad after an under-par autumn international display, to play at No. 10.

Quins flyer David Strettle will play on the wing while newcomers Geoff Parling (Leicester), Jon Clarke (Northampton) and Miles Benjamin (Worcester) are on the bench.

And with the game being played at Bath's Recreation Ground boss Lancaster is expecting some partisan England support.

“We are really looking forward to Sunday,” said Lancaster. “We have a young squad full of quality players and a good mix of experience. I'm sure they will rise to a challenging Ireland A squad.

“Bath Rugby have a passionate and loyal fan base and we hope to see as many of them as possible out on Sunday cheering us on and watching this exciting group of players in action.”