England recall Balshaw for Italy clash

ENGLAND last night summoned Iain Balshaw from the international wilderness for Saturday’s RBS 6 Nations clash against Italy - almost a year to the day after his last Test match appearance.

The Leeds full-back replaces skipper Jason Robinson, who underwent a thumb operation last week and faces a month on the sidelines.

Balshaw, 25, has not played international rugby since March 6 last year when England lost to Ireland.