Jack Clifford in novice England back row for Six Nations clash with Wales

Jack Clifford has been recalled to an inexperienced England back row in place of Tom Wood for Saturday’s Six Nations international against Wales in Cardiff.

Clifford, fit following a chest injury, has been called into the starting side by coach Eddie Jones while Wood, who has been struggling with a chest injury, is demoted to the bench.

The only other change to the England starting XV that beat France 19-16 at Twickenham in the grand slam champions tournament opener is on the wing, with Jack Nowell replacing Jonny May after the latter was sin-binned against France. May, like Wood, is now on the bench.

England could find themselves up against a vastly experienced Welsh loose forward trio comprising three British and Irish Lions, but Clifford, Maro Itoje – who is best known as a lock – and Nathan Hughes have just four back row starts between them, while Wood has 46 caps.

“Jack Clifford also deserves his starting role. He is a hard-working, young player,” Jones said.