Harlequins number eight Nick Easter has been recalled to the England side for Sunday's Six Nations clash in Italy after finally shaking off a lingering knee problem.

The 29-year-old - who last started for head coach Brian Ashton's side in October's World Cup final - replaces Gloucester youngster Luke Narraway, while scrum-half Andy Gomarsall retains his place at number nine.

Fellow Quins back-row Tom Guest will start for the Saxons against Italy A on Saturday along with fly-half Adrian Jarvis, who replaces Shane Geraghty.