England players set to wear rugby clothing ahead of World Cup

England coach Martin Johnson has confirmed which of his players are in contention to take part in the World Cup later this year.

Johnson has named a 45-man preliminary squad for the event in New Zealand, all of whom will prepare to wear rugby clothing for the match against Wales in August.

The tactician will then cut down the numbers until he arrives at the perfect group to take to the other side of the world in the fight for the greatest prize of all.

Saracens prop Matt Stevens is perhaps the most eye-catching inclusion, while Manusamoa Tuilagi have also made the cut.

"Every one of these players has the chance to be in that final 30 going to New Zealand. The camp is going to be intense and competitive, as you would expect," Johnson stated.

England won the World Cup in 2003 and came close again in 2007 when they reached the final.