I ask again, is Ashton definitely fit for this game? He didn't play in the last two Northampton HC games, so it doesn't look all that clear cut. There's been nothing in the news to say either way.

 

The quality of the Welsh back three depends alot on how Byrne plays. Halfpenny has been on fire since returning from injury, and Shane is Shane. Current form suggests England have a slight edge there, mainly due to Foden, but I think it'll be quite equal on the day.

 

My final hand-in for my dissertation is on the afternoon of this game. So I'll be free to go out to a pub and get rather merry. Happy days.