Sale Sharks’ rugby league convert Denny Solomona has been named along with three teammates in Eddie Jones’ England squad for the tour to Argentina in June.
Solomona, 23, made his Sharks debut in December and has scored 11 tries in 13 appearances to catch the eye of Jones. The New-Zealand born winger stated his availability to play for England last month.
Twins Ben and Tom Curry, part of England’s U20 Six Nations winning side and versatile back Sam James, who has played fly half and centre this season, have also been included in the 31-man squad.
Sharks director of rugby Steve Diamond said: “Three of the lads have come through our Academy and have committed their long term futures to the club and Denny Solomona has earned his call up.
“All four players have been performing week in and week out and fully deserve their opportunities.”
The squad will be captained by Dylan Hartley and will assemble on Sunday May 29 to begin their preparations for the two-Test tour.
Jones said: “We have picked the best squad we have available and we are looking forward to going to Argentina and winning 2-0.
“The squad have a great opportunity to represent their country and win for England. There are a few new faces in the set-up so every training session and team meeting will count.
“The Pumas are a physically aggressive side and they have become very good at playing unstructured rugby. We need to make sure we control the structural part of the game and our defence will play an absolutely crucial role.”
Solomona added: “Delighted and really looking forward to the tour. I would like to thank the coaches at Sharks along with the players and backroom staff who have helped me since my arrival and helped create this opportunity for me.”
England’s two tests are in San Juan on Saturday June 10 and Sante Fe a week later.
