Ashton poised to make first England start in four years

CHRIS Ashton makes his first England start for four years as one of three changes for tomorrow’s long-awaited clash with New Zealand at Twickenham.

Ashton lines-up on the right wing in place of Jack Nowell after impressing during his 15-minute spell as a substitute in the 12-11 victory over South Africa, which opened the Quilter Internationals.

The 31-year-old has amassed 40 caps in an international career interrupted by suspension, falling out of favour with successive England coaches and a season-long spell in Toulon.

Nowell drops to the bench but there is no place for Manu Tuilagi, despite his recovery from the groin strain which ruled him out against the Springboks.

The two other changes see Ben Moon come in for Alec Hepburn at loosehead prop and Sam Underhill replace the injured Tom Curry. England: Elliot Daly; Chris Ashton, Henry Slade, Ben Te’o, Jonny May; Owen Farrell (co-captain), Ben Youngs; Ben Moon, Dylan Hartley (co-captain), Kyle Sinckler, Maro Itoje, George Kruis, Brad Shields, Sam Underhill, Mark Wilson.

Replacements: Jamie George, Alec Hepburn, Harry Williams, Charlie Ewels, Courtney Lawes, Danny Care, George Ford, Jack Nowell.