Packman ready for England sevens

 

This is the only change to the side that finished third and second in Tokyo and Hong Kong respectively.

 

The Northampton Saints Academy fullback and wing replaces Jack Clifford who had an impact and benefited from the experience of the previous two tournaments.

 

Packman heads to New Zealand as part of the Under 20s squad to defend the Junior World Championship trophy later this year, which was lifted by the former England captain last summer.

 

“Howard has played for a number of England teams and has been a super talent from a very young age," England Sevens Head Coach Simon Amor said.

 

"This is a great opportunity to get him involved in the Glasgow tournament.

 

"With the Junior World Championship very much in mind, this will help with his preparation and development. 

 

"In training with the squad, he has proved that he is a devastating runner and we are hoping that he will not only add something to the England Sevens team but also gain a lot from the experience.

 

“It’s a challenge for any team when new players come in at different stages but the squad understands how sevens fits into the England development pathway.

 

"Our ability to do this reflects the strength and unity of the core group and credit must go particularly to the senior players for integrating the young guys and bringing them up to speed.”

 

England are currently fourth in the world series standings, eight points behind Fiji who trail South Africa and New Zealand.

 

With just Glasgow and the London Sevens left to play, they face Canada, France and Japan on day one of competition in Glasgow.

 

 

Dan Bibby, Phil Burgess, Sam Blanchet, Alex Gray, Tom Mitchell (captain), Dan Norton, Howard Packman, Tom Powell, James Rodwell, Sam Stanley, Marcus Watson, Jack Walsh.