CHARLIE Atkinson is set to make his first start of the Under 20 Six Nations tonight.

The former Abingdon School pupil has been chosen at full-back for England's clash with Ireland at Cardiff Arms Park (8pm).

Wasps youngster Atkinson, who began his career at Oxford RFC, steps up to the first XV after making an impact from the bench in last week's 31-12 win over Scotland.

Head coach Alan Dickens said: “There’s a lot of competition among the group which is exactly what we want as the players drive each other to be better in every session.

“I was pleased with Charlie’s input off the bench last time out and we wanted to give him some more game time this week."

England have won both Six Nations matches they have played so far, having beaten France 38-22 in their opener.

Atkinson, who does not turn 20 until October, was selected for his country's Under 20 Elite Player Squad in January after an encouraging start to senior rugby with Wasps.