Ashton realistic about England’s prospects

BRIAN ASHTON admits there is “a lot of ground to make up” as the clock continues ticking towards England’s World Cup defence.

The world champions can expect another reminder of their current global status when they tackle unbeaten RBS 6 Nations leaders and title favourites France at Twickenham on Sunday.

Victories over England and Scotland would see France secure a third championship clean sweep in six seasons, underlining them as an infinitely better bet to conquer planet rugby on home soil later this year than the present Webb Ellis Trophy holders.