Baxter backs Nowell for England recall

Editor

Exeter boss Rob Baxter says Jack Nowell can play himself back into England contention and maybe even earn a call-up to the British and Irish Lions.

Nowell has been in scintillating form for Exeter since returning from injury in December, which has drawn praise from Director of Rugby Baxter.

"I hope he can maintain this form and drive himself into the England side," Baxter told BBC Radio Devon.

"Then show form in a very good England set of performances in the Six Nations and he gives himself a fantastic opportunity to go on a Lions tour."

Nowell, 23, has won 18 England caps and was part of the side which whitewashed Australia on tour last year.

"He's playing extremely well. He's worked extremely hard, he's had a frustrating injury period and he's worked hard through that," added Baxter.

"He's reaping the rewards for the hard work that he's put in. You're also seeing him reaping the rewards for the team getting him on the front foot as well."

Nowell says playing for the Lions is an ambition of his, telling BBC Radio Cornwall: "I performed at Exeter and that got me my chance with England.

"The next step, if I do get a chance to play for England, is perform well and then the Lions does come next."