FORMER Keighley junior Ellie Kildunne is set to make her Six Nations debut for England against hosts Italy on Sunday.

The teenager, who is currently studying for her A-levels, has been named at full back as the red rose side begin the defence of their title at the Stadio Mirabello in Reggio Emilia.

The former Woodhouse Grove School pupil only made her international debut against Canada last autumn.

But the 18-year-old Gloucester-Hartpury player caught the eye in the three-match series and head coach Simon Middleton has given her the number 15 shirt for the Six Nations opener.

Middleton said: “The squad are ready for what will be a physical test against Italy.

"We know they can be unpredictable in how they play and have a well organised set piece. We have prepared well, with all players training at a consistently high standard throughout camp.

“With the depth and quality of players we have in the squad, we could have opted for a number of combinations with selection, but we have always said we would be selecting on form and have stayed true to that. We have full confidence this side can deliver a win on Sunday.”

England: Ellie Kildunne, Abigail Dow, Lauren Cattell, Rachael Burford, Danielle Waterman, Katy Daley-Mclean, Leanne Riley; Rochelle Clark, Lark Davies, Sarah Bern, Abbie Scott, Tamara Taylor, Poppy Cleall, Marlie Packer, Sarah Hunter.