Speedster Strettle braced for ‘baptism of fire’

DAVID STRETTLE is braced for “a baptism of fire” at Croke Park today after being handed one of the toughest jobs in European rugby – replacing Jason Robinson.

England boss Brian Ashton has again underlined his fearless selection streak by throwing 23-year-old Harlequins wing Strettle in at the deep end as the world champions put their unbeaten RBS 6 Nations record on the line.

Ashton could have promoted substitute back Mathew Tait, or looked at experienced pair Mark Cueto and Ben Cohen as options.