Published at 09:04, Saturday, 03 March 2012

Carlisle rugby starlet Nathan Morris today hopes to cap his 19th birthday with a starring role for England Under-20s.

Nathan Morris. Photo: Sam Macdonald

Morris has been named on the bench for the rearranged Under-20 Six Nations clash against Italy in Rovigo, but the London Wasps hooker will be determined to make an impact if he is given a chance.

He was given a chance to step up to the bench after being named reserve for last week’s 40-9 victory over Wales.

Morris, a former Carlisle Rugby Club junior, from Cargo, was due to play against Italy three weeks ago but the game was postponed before of snow.

England are currently two from two in this season’s competition, and have lost just once in their last twelve outings.

Rob Hunter’s side have scored 99 points without conceding a try in their opening Six Nations matches, but captain Chris Walker is under no illusions as to how tough a test his side will face in the north of Italy.

“We’re looking forward to actually getting out there and playing,” Walker said.

“It was frustrating having the game called off last time, but we’re ready and focussed on the job in hand.

“It’s great to welcome experienced guys like Matt Kvesic back into the mix and that kind of competition can only be good for the squad. We’ve got some real leaders in this side, Dan Robson in particular has been motivating the boys well and we can’t wait for the game.”

Morris has won England honours from Under-16 to Under-19 level and one of his international shirts is hanging in Carlisle Rugby Club.

He is hoping to be selected for this summer’s IRB Junior World Championship in South Africa.

He is enjoying a momentous start to 2012 as he was handed his full Wasps debut in their LV=Cup clash with Northampton Saints last month.

The youngster, who joined the Aviva Premiership side last summer after leaving Sedbergh School, replaced Tom Lindsay in the starting line-up, but was unable to prevent Saints from losing 57-10.

He played the first 40 minutes before being replaced by new Russian hooker Vladislav Korshunov after the break.

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