Old Haileyburian Jamie George in England's Rugby World Cup squad

Old Haileyburian Jamie George has been selected for England’s Rugby World Cup squad, writes David Rimmer.

The 24-year-old is one of eight Saracens players named in the 31-strong squad that was announced today (August 27).

Although England lost the second of their warm-up games against France last Saturday (August 22), George played well when he came on as a second half substitute.

George’s selection also comes after a physically demanding training camp that has been held over the summer.

England coach Stuart Lancaster said: “After 10 weeks in camp we have made our final selection of players and we believe we have a great group to take us into the tournament.

“With three weeks to before we play Fiji we believe we are in good shape as we head into next Saturday’s game (September 5) against Ireland.”

He added: ”As the excitement builds around the tournament we are looking forward to the country getting behind England and we know this group of players will represent the nation with pride.”

England’s opening World Cup game against Fiji is on September 18.

(David Rimmer attended Haileybury from 1976.3 to 1981.2 and is the author of 'Haileybury Cricket 1863-1992').