Vunipola back for Sarries with Scotland in sights

BILLY VUNIPOLA faces a Six Nations fitness test in Newcastle today as he sets out to remind England’s opponents why his team-mates believe he is the best No8 in the world.

The 24-year-old returns to action at Kingston Park against Newcastle Falcons this afternoon three weeks ahead of schedule following knee surgery last November.

Wasps No8 Nathan Hughes has not been able to match Vunipola’s fireworks at the back of England’s scrum since taking over against Australia last November and scrum-half Ben Youngs admits it would be a huge boost to have the Saracen back for Saturday’s Calcutta Cup clash.

‘If big Bill gets through the game all right then a guy like that adds competition in the squad straight away,’ said Youngs. ‘He adds confidence to the side because he is absolutely world class. If you were playing against that and you saw his name on the team sheet then you’d be slightly annoyed that he’s come back sooner than they thought.

‘It’s great to see someone of his calibre back fit so early and it’s testament to him how hard he’s worked.

‘I’ve played with Bill, and unfortunately I have to play against him twice a year, and on his day he is the best No8 in the world.

‘I don’t think other players can do what Billy does. No8s can suck in players but not many can carry two, three defenders and physically impose himself from minute one until 80.

‘Billy’s not a guy who waits for the game to come to him, he is just absolutely on it. Every time you get out as a No9 you know that Billy is there. We’re very fortunate to have him and Nathan. Nathan has come in and been terrific again.

‘He’s really grown and he’s come on in each game. You can really see Nathan has found his home at Test rugby now. We’re very fortunate with different dynamics.’