Stuart Lancaster believes England’s clash with the Barbarians on Sunday is key in his side’s development towards the World Cup ahead of the imminent tour of Argentina.
Lancaster has named an experimental side with hooker Rob Webber the captain and first senior appearances for wingers Christian Wade, Marland Yarde and flanker Matt Kvesic.
Only Alex Corbisiero, Mike Brown, Richard Wigglesworth and Ben Morgan have more than ten caps in a side that catches the eye for its array of exciting ball players.
On the bench there are no less than six uncapped players and Lancaster believes the match will prove a useful tool as England gear up for their trip to South America.
“Taking on a very experienced Barbarians team is the first challenge they face this summer with matches in Uruguay and Argentina to follow and this sequence of games is a key part of our development as a team,” said Lancaster.
“Webber finished the season strongly with Bath and I know his leadership qualities well. I am sure he’ll show the way backed up by the other senior players in the team.”
