Cowan-Dickie scores maiden Test try

By Mark Stevens
11/8/19

Luke Cowan-Dickie scored a first-ever international try as he helped England kick-off their Rugby World Cup preparations with a 33-19 victory over Wales at Twickenham.

The Exeter Chiefs hooker, making his first Test start, stole over the line just before half-time to claim one of three tries for Eddie Jones’ side in the first of four warm-up games before they head to Japan.

Earlier, Billy Vunipola and Joe Cokanasiga had claimed scores of their own for the home side, whose other points came from skipper George Ford (15) and Elliot Daly (3).

For Wales, it brought to an end a 14-game winning streak and left last season’s Grand Slam champions with plenty to ponder before the two sides meet again in Cardiff in six days time.

Gareth Davies claimed a first half score for Warren Gatland’s side, before George North and Wyn Jones both crossed to bring the visitors back into contention.

First-choice fly-half Gareth Anscombe - who was forced from the field with injury and was later seen on crutches - and Dan Biggar both claimed a conversion apiece.

Gatland's side would have taken top spot in the world rankings, ending New Zealand's near decade-long reign at the top, had they avoided defeat.