Too soon to write off Kyle

Rugby Union:

OLDHAM’S Kyle Eastmond may not have played for England since November, but Lewis Moody is sure the talented centre can still make his mark on this year’s World Cup.

Eastmond started the first two autumn internationals against New Zealand and South Africa in 2014 before being dropped.

One thing playing into Eastmond’s hands is that unlike in previous years, England don’t have a truly

settled starting XV heading into the tournament, which starts on September 18. And Moody, who lifted the World Cup in 2003, insists that means someone like 26-year-old Eastmond is in the perfect position to capitalise.

“The fact that the starting XV isn’t set in stone is why I’m excited,” said Moody. “In terms of the guys who are nailed down for their spots you’d say Chris Robshaw, Jonathan Joseph, Mike Brown and George Ford, but that’s about it. So if can be trusted then I think he’s got a great opportunity to make a real impact for England.”

Before England start their campaign to win a second World Cup against Fiji at Twickenham, they face warm-up games against France and Ireland.

Those games should not only provide clarification as to coach Stuart Lancaster’s best starting XV, but should hopefully signal an upturn in form