Ethan Roots and Fraser Dingwall will make their England debuts against Italy in Rome on Saturday on the opening weekend of the Six Nations.

The experienced George Ford will steer England's attack from fly-half.

England head coach Steve Borthwick has also named the uncapped trio of Chandler Cunningham-South, Fin Smith and Immanuel Feyi-Waboso on the bench.

Hooker Jamie George's tenure as captain will begin in Rome, while Tommy Freeman is rewarded for his impressive form in Northampton Saints' charge to the top of the Premiership table with a starting berth on the wing.

"After an excellent week's preparation in Girona, we look forward to the challenge of playing Italy in Rome," said Borthwick.

"The Azzurri are a dangerous team, with some talented ball carriers and players who like to find space.

"We'll need to make good decisions, keep our discipline, and maintain a level of intensity to our performance from the first whistle to the last."

Speaking about the inclusion of five uncapped players in the matchday 23, Borthwick added: "Winning a first cap for your country is always a very special occasion.

"We're delighted for the debutants who have all worked incredibly hard to get themselves selected in the 23 to face Italy. I know Saturday will be a very proud moment for the players and their families.

"My message to them this week has been to be themselves, to grasp their opportunity, and to play with the strengths and skills that deservedly got them selected to a strong Six Nations squad."

England: Steward; Freeman, Slade, Dingwall, Daly; Ford, Mitchell; Marler, George (capt), Stuart, Itoje, Chessum, Roots, Underhill, Earl.

Replacements: Dan, Genge, Cole, Coles, Cunningham-South, Care, F Smith, Feyi-Waboso