The prop has been drafted into Andy Robinson's squad this week because of injuries, but misses out on a starting place to Bath team-mate Matt Stevens.

Bell said: ''I'm very proud for Matt but I'm hoping to get on and show what I can do.''

It is a chance he thought had passed him by after going on England's summer tour of 1998 and sitting on the bench without seeing any action.

After that, Kings Lynn-born Bell, who lives in Llantrisant, near Cardiff, made attempts to qualify for Wales on residential grounds after playing for Ebbw Vale and Pontypridd before moving back to Bath.

The IRB ruled against that a few months ago and Bell admits he has been surprised by the speed of his ascendancy to the England squad.

He added: ''A fortnight ago, I never thought I would get a call but I got my chance in the A team against France, played well and was named player of the match and because of the injuries I've got my call for the senior side.

''It would be great to win an international cap because it's something I've dreamed about since I was a little kid.''

''I've managed to put my hand up and I intend to prove what I can do.

''You can freeze at this level but I might only get this one chance. If I freeze I probably won't get another but the game - and life - is about taking your chance when it comes.

''The pressure is on for both me and the team on Sunday but we know we can play rugby. You only have to look at the world-class players in this team to know that if we gel, there is no reason why we can't beat Ireland.''