FORMER Pocklington School pupil Lewis Wilson has been selected for England’s under-19s rugby union team to take on France in this evening's friendly.

The 19-year-old former Pocklington RUFC junior, made his debut for England under-18s last year.

The powerful flanker has now travelled with the Under-19 squad for the match at Stade Jules Ladoumègue, near Paris (6.30pm).

Sean Houltham, rugby coach at Pocklington School, said: “This is a significant step in Lewis’ rugby career progression and is a well-deserved reflection of his hard work, dedication and considerable talent.

"We're extremely proud of Lewis at Pocklington School and closely follow his progress. We wish him and all the squad the best of luck."

Wilson, a flanker, is currently on loan from Championship side Yorkshire Carnegie to National League Two North team Wharfedale.

His longer-term aim is to establish himself with Carnegie and play for England under-20s next season.

Yorkshire Carnegie academy manager Jon Pendlebury said: "This is just reward for Lewis’ efforts and performances this season, not just with Yorkshire Carnegie, but also the role Wharfedale have played in supporting and further progressing his development towards involvement at a senior level and England under-19s level.

"The England under-19s fixture is a step towards possible inclusion next season as an under-20 and one target I know Lewis will have next season.

“It is also reward for Pocklington RUFC along with Pocklington School, who can take an awful lot of pride from this squad announcement.

"It's a great story for both club and school in supporting player progression in the county and shows how the club and school pathway to academy partnership works.

“Credit to Lewis' junior coaches, Chris Ingle and Andrew Richardson, along with school coach Sean Houltham, who we have worked with very closely over this past three seasons, for all the time and effort they have put in with Lewis."