Haskell and Marler included in England squad for Italy clash despite suspension

Experienced duo James Haskell and Joe Marler have been included in England squad for the Six Nations clash against Italy on Sunday despite being suspended.

Haskell was sent-off for a dangerous tackle on Jamie Roberts in the 75th minute of the European Champions Cup game between Wasps and Harlequins at Twickenham Stoop and was handed a four-week ban while Marler was suspended for six weeks after he was found striking TJ Ioane with the shoulder during Harlequins' Aviva Premiership encounter against Sale Sharks.

The duo missed the training camp in Portugal and will miss the red rose team's opening clashes against Italy and Wales but head coach Eddie Jones has called up the experienced players nevertheless.

A statement released by the England board revealed that the duo will travel with the squad to Rome.

Marcus Smith, Zach Mercer, Tom Dunn, Alec Hepburn, Nathan Earle, Harry Mallinder, Lewis Boyce and Gary Graham are the eight uncapped players named in the squad as England look to win the Six Nations title for the third consecutive time.