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England recall Tuilagi and Lawes for Wales clash

On the way back: Manu Tuilagi training ahead of the Wales game. ©AFP

London (AFP) - Powerhouse centre Manu Tuilagi has been recalled to England's side for Saturday's pivotal Six Nations Championship clash against Wales at Twickenham.

The injury-plagued Tuilagi returns to midfield after three months out with a torn hamstring for what will be his first Six Nations start in nearly two years. 

Eddie Jones has also restored Courtney Lawes as England captain after the Northampton back-row missed the opening two rounds following a concussion suffered on club duty.

Stand-in skipper Tom Curry remains in a loose forward trio also featuring Harlequins No 8 Alex Dombrandt. 

But in a surprise move from veteran coach Jones, scrum-half Ben Youngs must surpass Jason Leonard's record as England's most capped player coming on as a replacement.

Jones selected at scrum-half the three-times capped Harry Randall, who also started the 33-0 rout of Italy in Rome last time out.

If Youngs gets on the field he will win his 115th cap in front of what is set to be a capacity Twickenham crowd, with this weekend's fixture England's first home game of this Six Nations.

Tighthead prop Kyle Sinckler will win his 50th cap.

Both England and reigning champions Wales have one win and one defeat so far in this season's edition.

"It will also be a special match with two significant milestones for Ben and Kyle, both of whom have made outstanding contributions to English rugby so far in their careers," said Jones in a statement.

"We congratulate them and we know there is more to come ahead for them.

"We've prepared very well for this game, the squad have really come together on and off the pitch."

The veteran Australian boss added: "Wales are a good, tough side and Six Nations champions and it will make for an exciting Test match in front of a full Twickenham crowd.

"We've got a talented, young, hungry squad who have trained with real intensity this week.We're ready to go at them and can't wait to play in front of our supporters again."

England team to play Wales (15-1)

Freddie Steward; Max Malins, Henry Slade, Manu Tuilagi, Jack Nowell; Marcus Smith, Harry Randall; Alex Dombrandt, Tom Curry, Courtney Lawes (capt); Maro Itoje, Charlie Ewels; Kyle Sinckler, Luke Cowan-Dickie, Ellis Genge

Replacements: Jamie George, Joe Marler, Will Stuart, Nick Isiekwe, Sam Simmonds, Ben Youngs, George Ford, Elliot Daly

Coach: Eddie Jones (AUS)

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