Rugby: Kiwi Teimana Harrison named in England squad

Teimana Harrison in action for Northampton. photo / Getty

Former Rotorua Boys High first XV captain Teimana Harrison has been named in the England training squad to face Wales later this month.

The 23-year-old Opotiki born flanker or No.8, who has an English father, has excelled for Northampton this season and has been included in a squad of around 20 players who will convene for a three-day training squad in Brighton beginning on May 16.

England skipper Dylan Hartley recruited Harrison to Northampton when he visited his old school during the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

The squad will not include players from any of the four remaining Aviva Premiership teams left in the play-offs - Saracens, Exeter, Leicester and Wasps - but Harrison's inclusion will spark significant interest after a breakthrough season with Saints.

Harrison can play across the back row and Northampton director of rugby Jim Mallinder believes he is ready for the step up to international rugby.

"He is definitely in the frame," Mallinder said recently.

"He has been improving for a few years but I think we have seen a level of consistent performance from him this year to suggest that he go on and play at a higher level."

"Teimana plays well for us at eight but I think at international level seven will be his position," said Mallinder.

"He has been good for us all year. He is not particularly big for a No 8 but he plays above his weight. Some of his carrying was absolutely immense."

Hartley is also expected to be included - despite not starting a game since being knocked out in England's Grand Slam victory over France on March 19.

The squad will begin preparations for the one-off test against Wales at Twickenham on May 29 before the three Test tour to Australia .