Sam Burgess made a forgettable representative union debut as England Saxons ground out a worthy victory over the Ireland Wolfhounds in Cork.

Sam Burgess is unfazed by all the World Cup hype and expectation surrounding his England Saxons debut in Cork, according to coach Jon Callard.

Sean O'Brien remains in contention to end an injury-plagued 14 months by making a comeback for the Irish Wolfhounds against England Saxons.

Reading down the England Saxons team sheet before Saturday’s fixture against the Ireland Wolfhounds, it was difficult not to get excited about what could happen out there on the pitch.