Prop boost for England as key duo return

England have been handed a double boost ahead of their Six Nations match against Italy, with Mako Vunipola and Kyle Sinckler returning to the squad.

Sinckler missed the 11-6 Calcutta Cup loss to Scotland after completing his ban for swearing at a referee while Vunipola has been out since November with an Achilles injury.

Making way to accommodate their return to Eddie Jones’ reduced 28-man Championship squad are Exeter tighthead Harry Williams and Wasps loosehead Tom West.

Jones will welcome the availability of his first-choice props following a dismal display against Scotland in which his pack failed to gain any kind of foothold in the game.

Bristol Bears prop Sinckler is expected to slot straight back into the starting XV but given his two-month absence, Vunipola is more likely destined for a bench role.