EARL'S EAGER TO FILL VOID

New generation of leaders step up in absence of big figures

- Adam Hathaway

BEN EARL has urged the latest generation of leaders to stand up and be counted for Steve Borthwick's new England in Rome today.

Saracens back row Earl was one of the success stories of England's thirdplace finish at the World Cup in France last year and is a senior figure in a much-changed squad.

Just six of the starting line-up who beat Argentina 26-23 to claim bronze at the World Cup are in the run-on XV against Italy as retirements, unavailability and injury forced the hand of head coach Borthwick, right, in selection.

Missing are players such as Courtney Lawes, Owen Farrell, Ben Youngs, Manu Tuilagi, Tom Curry and Jonny May.