Fresh from their Premiership Rugby Under-18s success, London Irish Academy quintet Rory Brand, Joe Cokanasiga, Jarod Leat, Tom Parton and Matt Williams have all been named in the England Under-18 squad to face France. 

The game which will be played at the St. Moreau Desfarg this Saturday’s (kick-off 1.30pm GMT), will be the perfect opportunity for the burgeoning talents to shine on the international roster.  

Irish Under-18s put Gloucester to the sword to devastating effect, running out 35-11 winners at Allianz Park earlier this month. 

And academy coach Declan Danaher insists the five selected players thoroughly deserve their call-up.

“To have five of our players named in the England squad is testament to all the hard work that they have put in throughout the course of the season,” said Danaher. 

“There could have easily been more London Irish players named in the set-up as there is a very talented group here. 

“I’m sure they will relish the challenge of playing the French and hopefully they can return home with a positive result and a performance to match,” added Danaher.     

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