Nowell handed 'golden ticket'

By Mark Stevens
1/2/19

A bit like Charlie in the Chocolate Factory, Jack Nowell has revealed he has been given a 'golden ticket' by England that grants him licence to roam in Saturday's clash with Ireland.

The Exeter Chiefs star has been recalled to the left wing for England’s Guinness Six Nations collision in Dublin, a fortnight after Head Coach Eddie Jones floated the idea of selecting him at open-side flanker.

The Australian coach has also considered picking a ninth forward and while he insists Nowell will operate as a wing against the reigning champions this weekend, the Cornishman confirmed he will also be more involved up front.

“I’ve always said since I was younger it was my dream to play seven one day,” said Nowell. “I’m not a typical winger, I like to get stuck in and get over the breakdown. I like tackling and being with the big boys.

“Eddie has almost given me a bit of a golden ticket, just to have that free role. We know Ireland are going to come with a big breakdown threat so I can get stuck in there a bit more.

“I am always working on my breakdown stuff, so to have that freedom is exciting. I’m not going to be running around out of position, but it is nice to know I can go out and get my hands on the ball.”