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Ben Te'o and James Haskell have 'exciting opportunity' in England v Italy, says Neal Hatley

Ben Te'o during an England training session ahead of game against Italy
Image: Ben Te'o during an England training session ahead of the game against Italy on Sunday

Ben Te'o and James Haskell have been challenged to carry the impact they have made as replacements into the starting line-up when England face Italy on Sunday.

England's Six Nations title defence continues with the visit of Conor O'Shea's Azzurri to Twickenham, with the hosts seeking a 17th consecutive win.

Te'o and Haskell made telling contributions to the late victories over France and Wales, arriving off the bench to unleash a succession of muscular carries at a time when England needed fresh momentum.

It will be rugby league convert Te'o's first start after winning all five of his caps as a replacement, and head coach Eddie Jones is eager to see how he performs at outside centre.

James Haskell leaves the pitch after England's Six Nations win over France
Image: James Haskell leaves the pitch after England's win over France when he came on as a replacement

Haskell is restored to the back row having completed his recovery from toe surgery to make his first start since last summer's triumphant tour to Australia.

Scrum coach Neal Hatley said: "Ben and James have had a real impact off the bench for us in this Six Nations.

"This is an exciting opportunity for them, particularly for Ben. We know what Haskell gives the team, so this is a chance to see what Ben can do.

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"He's a strong runner and he's waited for the opportunity to start for some time now, so he's chomping at the bit."

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