Exeter Chiefs star joins England's Six Nations squad

Exeter Chiefs’ Henry Slade has been included in Steve Borthwick’s 36-man England squad for the upcoming Six Nations Championship, alongside Chiefs winger Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, who will continue his rehabilitation within the international set-up.

The squad announcement also saw Maro Itoje named as England’s new captain, becoming the 136th player to hold the prestigious role since its inception in 1871. Itoje will be supported by vice-captains Ellis Genge and Jamie George, providing a strong leadership trio for the team.

The 36-player squad, which consists of 20 forwards and 16 backs, will assemble at the Honda England Rugby Performance Centre in Pennyhill Park on Tuesday 21 January before heading to Girona to begin their preparations for the Guinness Men’s Six Nations Championship.

Uncapped players Oscar Beard and Cadan Murley, both from Harlequins, also make their way into the squad, adding fresh talent to the team.

Borthwick expressed his confidence in the squad, saying, “I’ve selected a squad where every player brings something unique to the group. The Six Nations is always a fiercely contested and exciting tournament, and this year will be no exception. We’re looking forward to the squad coming together in Girona to kick off our preparations for the opening challenge against Ireland in Dublin.”

England’s Six Nations campaign will begin with a clash against Ireland in Dublin on February 1, followed by matches against France, Scotland, Italy, and Wales.