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Grayson is given call by Woodward

Grayson will replace Jonny Wilkinson in the England side
Grayson will replace Jonny Wilkinson in the England side

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LONDON, England -- Veteran fly-half Paul Grayson will replace injured kicker Jonny Wilkinson for England's opening Six Nations match with Italy in Rome on Sunday.

The 32-year-old Northampton star was Wilkinson's back-up during the triumphant World Cup campaign and beat off opposition from younger rivals Ollie Barkley and Alex King.

Of the starting 15 from the World Cup final victory over Australia in November only 10 survive.

"Paul is the best player and I am mindful we've had no training time at all since the World Cup. To throw in Ollie Barkley or Alex King with no preparation would be a big call, especially playing away from home," said coach Clive Woodward.

Grayson will win his 25th cap on Sunday since making his debut in 1995 and has scored 314 points for England, which includes just one try.

However, he will not have clubmate Matt Dawson alongside him at scrum-half as Andy Gomersall has been preferred in the starting line-up.

Dawson has been out with a shoulder injury and only recently returned to competitive rugby.

Flanker Joe Worsley, a squad member in Australia, has been selected by Woodward to fill the gap left by the axed Neil Back where he will play alongside Lawrence Dallaglio, restored to the captaincy after the retirement of Martin Johnson, and the inspirational Richard Hill.

Jason Robinson will play in his third position for the team. Having filled the fullback and winger roles, he has been selected to play in the centre alongside newly-appointed vice-captain Will Greenwood.

"Greenwood is a tremendous leader behind the scenes and has always helped out Jonny Wilkinson in that role," said Woodward.

"So now with Jonny not being available, it's important Will steps into the frame, especially in our attacking play."


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